The Rams are an absolute dumpster fire, but that doesn't mean you should ignore them in fantasy football.
Rookie running back Kyren Williams, in particular, is someone who should be on everyone's radar for the stretch run. Cam Akers continues to do nothing and Darrell Henderson was just waived, so there's a road to significant playing time for Williams if the Rams pull the plug on Akers at some point.
The Action Network's fantasy football experts make the case for Williams as a worthy bench stash below.
Samantha Previte: Williams led the Rams’ backfield in usage in their 26-10 blowout loss to the Chiefs, recording 14 touches for 60 all-purpose yards.
Cam Akers was also involved and saw eight carries for 37 yards, though he was out-snapped by Williams 16 to 38. Based on Akers’ tenuous relationship with the coaching staff this season, I expect this will be some kind of time share, potentially in Williams’ favor.
The Rams have mouthwatering matchups coming up against three below-average run defenses. Week 13 will bring the Seahawks, whose defense ranks 19th in rush DVOA. Williams could be a viable RB3/flex option against three bottom-eight defenses against running backs.
Mike Triplett: The Rams rookie should be the highest RB priority on this week’s list because of the great opportunity he has down the stretch – though he obviously has a low ceiling in such a defunct offense.
Williams has seemingly won the game of musical chairs in Los Angeles’ backfield, with 38 snaps in Week 12 compared to just 16 for Cam Akers after the team released Darrell Henderson. Williams produced only 35 rushing yards on 11 carries to go with 25 receiving yards on three catches. But his pass-catching ability boosts his fantasy value, and his opportunity should only continue to grow as the Rams look toward 2023.
Coach Sean McVay has praised Williams for his competitiveness and his development as a pass protector, traits that should keep him on the field.
