Who Should I Start? Kyren Williams or Jahmyr Gibbs

Tuesday, July 22, 2:09 PM

Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams is planning to be a full participant in practice amidst ongoing extension negotiations with the team, according to Cameron DaSilva of Rams Wire. Previous reporting had indicated that Williams was a candidate to "hold-in" during training camp, but it appears that will not be the case. Williams turns 25 in August and is entering the final season of his four-year rookie contract. He played 16 games for Los Angeles in 2024, logging 316 carries for 1,299 yards and 14 touchdowns. Williams also added 34 catches for 182 yards and two receiving touchdowns. He has dominated running back carries for the Rams in each of the past two seasons. An extended absence during training camp may have altered that, but it appears Williams is opting against that approach as he seeks a long-term commitment from the team.

Tuesday, July 29, 6:30 PM

The Athletic's Colton Pouncy points out that "one thing that's been clear as these practices have unfolded is that Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs is usually the first back on the field with the starters." In past years, David Montgomery would often get the bulk of the first carries of the game before we'd see Gibbs. Pouncy cautions that it could be nothing to read into, but there was a clear pecking order that often translated to games. With Montgomery injured last year, Gibbs couldn't be stopped, totaling 487 scrimmage yards and six touchdowns in the final three games of the regular season. It's now Year 3 for Gibbs, and the Lions have been open about using more two-back sets with both Gibbs and Monty. In addition to being used out of the backfield, Gibbs has also lined up at receiver with Montgomery on the field. It looks like the Lions want Gibbs on the field as much as possible in 2025.