Rams' Running Game Remains Strength Despite Potential QB Change

Sean McVay's offensive brilliance and the team's deep backfield make the running game a non-concern.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 11:08am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a Rams running play, with overlapping planes of color and abstracted shapes representing the players and action on the field.The Rams' running game remains a strength, with a deep backfield and Sean McVay's innovative offensive schemes.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles Rams have a strong offensive infrastructure that should allow them to remain dominant even if veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford retires after next season. The team's running game, led by Kyren Williams and Blake Corum, is a particular strength that doesn't require immediate attention, thanks to McVay's offensive acumen and the depth of talent in the backfield.

Why it matters

The Rams' running game has been a key part of their offensive success in recent years, and maintaining that strength will be crucial if they need to transition to a new starting quarterback. McVay's ability to scheme and develop running backs, combined with the team's young, talented backfield, gives them confidence that the ground game will remain a reliable part of their offense.

The details

Kyren Williams, 24, is under contract through 2028 and is expected to continue being the Rams' lead back. Blake Corum, an impressive backup, is set to become a free agent in 2027, but the team is likely to re-sign him to maintain their depth at the position. Jarquez Hunter, a speedy second-year player, could also emerge as a contributor and potential long-term piece of the Rams' running attack.

  • Kyren Williams' contract runs through the 2028 season.
  • Blake Corum's rookie contract expires after the 2027 season.
  • Jarquez Hunter is entering his second NFL season in 2026.

The players

Sean McVay

The head coach of the Los Angeles Rams, known for his innovative offensive schemes and ability to develop running backs.

Matthew Stafford

The veteran quarterback of the Los Angeles Rams, who may retire after the 2026 season.

Kyren Williams

The Rams' starting running back, who is under contract through the 2028 season.

Blake Corum

The Rams' impressive backup running back, who is set to become a free agent in 2027.

Jarquez Hunter

A speedy second-year running back for the Rams, who could emerge as a contributor in the team's backfield.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Kyren Williams didn't stop playing his heart out after he got a contract extension. His 2025 season was slightly worse than his 2024 campaign, but that's just because he wasn't asked to do everything for them in their rushing attack.”

— Fernando Alfaro-Donis, Author

“Blake Corum's contract may expire in 2027, but he's one of the biggest reasons why the Rams don't have to worry about drafting another running back any time soon. He broke out in 2025 and ran through the goal line six times in 145 carries.”

— Fernando Alfaro-Donis, Author

What’s next

The Rams will need to monitor Corum's contract situation and determine if they want to re-sign him before he hits free agency in 2027. They will also need to continue developing Jarquez Hunter to ensure they have depth and explosiveness in the backfield.

The takeaway

The Rams' running game remains a strength of the team, even with the potential departure of veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford. Sean McVay's offensive expertise, combined with the young talent and depth in the backfield, gives the Rams confidence that their ground attack will continue to be a reliable part of their offense going forward.