Los Angeles Rams running back Jarquez Hunter was a fourth-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft after a fantastic final season at Auburn. This offseason, the Rams coaching staff is pleased with his attention to detail and the way he has picked up the team's playbook. "He's a young man that's very focused on making sure he's doing exactly what we need him to do in order for him to take that next step," running backs coach Ron Gould said. "And then I was just very surprised at how quickly he picked up everything." The rookie will surely begin the season behind Pro Bowl running back Kyren Williams, but Williams struggled with explosiveness in 2024, posting just two 20-plus-yard runs on 316 carries. Meanwhile, Hunter ranked second nationally in runs of 10-plus yards per carry in 2024. With Blake Corum struggling to make an impact last year, Hunter could be the favorite to win the RB2 role. And if Williams continues to lack big-play upside, we could see a healthy mix of Hunter as a change-of-pace back. If he's the clear RB2 in Los Angeles, he has potential league-winning upside in the case of Williams injury.
Jul 10, 2025 3:15 PM EST
The Los Angeles Rams selected Auburn running back Jarquez Hunter with the 117th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Hunter is a physical runner known for his ability to earn extra yards after first contact. He demonstrates good decision-making skills and football IQ, which, paired with his physicality, makes him an intriguing option in short-yardage situations. With that said, Hunter might not be limited to only short-yardage plays; he led the SEC with 6.4 yards per carry last season. He totaled 1,201 yards on the ground and scored nine touchdowns along the way. Los Angeles' young backfield now features Kyren Williams, Blake Corum, and Hunter.
Apr 26, 2025 1:07 PM EST