The Los Angeles Rams are preparing for the upcoming NFL season, and recent insights suggest that running back Kyren Williams may not hold his starting position for long. A bold prediction made by ESPN's Dan Graziano has raised eyebrows, indicating that Blake Corum could potentially surpass Williams as the team's primary running back during the 2026 season.
In a report published on September 2, Graziano stated, "Don’t be surprised if Blake Corum overtakes Kyren Williams as the team’s lead running back at some point this season." This prediction aligns with earlier assessments from The Athletic’s Nate Atkins, who anticipated a shared workload between the two backs. Atkins had previously suggested a 50-50 split in carries, with Williams serving as the primary third-down back and Corum as a change-of-pace option known for his explosive running style.
The dynamics between Williams and Corum have been a focal point as the Rams prepare for the 2026 campaign. Graziano elaborated that the Rams were pleased with the health of both players last season, which allowed them to explore a similar distribution of carries. He noted, "I believe the Rams plan to give Corum more carries than he got last season and bring it pretty close to a 50-50 split, with Williams still nominally in the lead role to open the campaign." However, if Corum continues to impress, particularly in pass protection, he could emerge as the team's leading back as the season progresses.
Kyren Williams had a stellar 2025 season, rushing for 1,252 yards and scoring 10 touchdowns on 259 carries, marking his third consecutive year with over 1,000 rushing yards. Additionally, he recorded over 200 receiving yards for the second time in three seasons. In contrast, Blake Corum finished the season with 746 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 145 carries, averaging 5.1 yards per carry. While Corum's receiving numbers dipped compared to his rookie year, his performance in the latter part of the season suggests he has the potential to challenge Williams for the starting role.
As the Rams look to solidify their backfield, Graziano pointed out that the future of both players is also a consideration. Williams is under contract through 2028, but his deal includes only about $2.3 million in guaranteed money for 2027. Corum, drafted in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, is signed through 2027. A standout season for Corum could set him up for a lucrative contract extension with the Rams next spring.
The Rams are facing important financial decisions as they manage their roster, including commitments to other key players such as Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie. With Kyren Williams carrying a significant $10 million cap hit in 2027, the team must carefully evaluate their spending on running backs, as it is uncommon for franchises to invest heavily in two high-priced players at the same position.
As the season approaches, the competition between Williams and Corum will be closely monitored, with both players eager to prove their value to the team. The outcome of this battle will not only impact the Rams' offensive strategy but could also shape the future of their running back corps.
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