Los Angeles Rams: In order to relieve some of Kyren Williams’ workload, they might target the running back position in free agency. Does Commanders support Antonio Gibson?
It’s safe to say that the Los Angeles Rams had no idea who will start at running back in 2023 and that outstanding player will be starting for them.
Few running backs had a better season than Kyren Williams of the Rams, who finished third in the league in rushing despite playing in just 12 games. Williams burst into the scene.
Los Angeles might also look to the cheap bin for depth, so they won’t be shy about taking big shots at the running back position.
Antonio Gibson might be a good fit if general manager Les Snead searches for more backfield support, presumably to relieve some of the pressure on Williams, the running back for the Washington Commanders.
Los Angeles might give more weight to a particular kind of specialist when selecting a backup back than to a well-rounded backup who is demoted for lack of exceptional qualities. The Rams would be better off with a complementary player to Williams rather than a smaller version of him, whether that player is a power back with the ability to handle hard touches in the red zone or a third-down back with an emphasis on throwing.
A previous receiver so meets the requirement. As much as you can consider a running back, Gibson is a more natural receiver and presents a greater downfield threat than Williams, who undoubtedly performed well enough on third downs to warrant the right to pass protect.
Throughout his rookie deal, Gibson has caught 213 passes for 1,283 yards and seven touchdowns; in the previous two seasons, he has only seen 811 rushing yards. The Rams may be able to replace Ronnie Rivers as their primary backup, and it might be more advantageous to do so with a less expensive running back than to look through the NFL Draft for one.
Los Angeles’s tendency to cycle through depth at the position suggests that a Day 3 choice could be better used on a higher-value position. The Rams might be more ready to pay for their backup plan since they need depth on the offensive line, defense, and quarterback position.
