A starting running back in the NFL rarely gets named as their team’s primary punt returner. Yesterday, Los Angeles Rams Head Coach Sean McVay announced that Kyren Williams would be the team’s punt returner to start the season. The statement came as a big surprise to fantasy managers. Was it merely roster finessing by the Rams on cut-down day, or will it have lasting fantasy relevance?
Fantasy Implications to Consider
Fantasy Managers can analyze this situation in a few different ways.
One, you hate to hear that a player being drafted as the 7th RB off the board and 15th overall is being put in a position for added injury risk by returning punts.
Two – Does this indicate that rookie RB Blake Corum could take on a bigger workload as the season progresses, relegating Kyren Williams to low-end RB2 numbers?
Three – are managers going to get a player already projected to have RB1 fantasy production, now getting added opportunities to score more touchdowns and add return yardage to his fantasy stat lines?
There is no question that Kyren Williams is an explosive athlete and the Rams want to get the ball in his hands as much as possible. This should offer a degree of comfort if you have already drafted Kyren, or if he is a player you are targeting in upcoming drafts. This decision doesn’t move the needle up for his draft stock.
It will probably drive his ADP down a bit. Mostly, it tells fantasy managers of Kyren Williams that Blake Corum and Ronnie Rivers are the most important hand-cuffs you need to get on your roster.
Common sense has to tell fantasy managers that Kyren will be coming off the field for most first downs and probably some second downs to catch his breath after returning a punt. When the Rams’ offense takes the field without fielding a punt first, Kyren will still probably be out there on first down and second downs.
But, if we start to see either Blake Corum or Ronnie Rivers out there instead, managers have to wonder if Kyren might end up as more of a timeshare back with upside, rather than a bonafide RB1.
Kyren, Take it to the House
The big x-factor for Kyren Williams’ fantasy value will be touchdowns. If Kyren gets all the goal-line carries, his opportunity to score more touchdowns than his backfield cohorts will make up for a possible dip in touches.
If Williams returns several punts for big yardage and a few for touchdowns, that could be a league-winning difference. It all boils down to how much risk fantasy managers are willing to take for the opportunity to find out what Kyren Williams will do this season.
Final Thoughts
Backfiled clarity is one of the most sought-after attributes that fantasy managers look for when selecting their RB1. We all want to have, “the guy” not just “a guy”. Timeshare backfields can be maddening, particularly if it is more than a 2-way split.
If all three of these backs get involved in the Rams offense, which McVay has already hinted towards, Kyren Williams could be a huge bust for fantasy managers if he continues to be drafted as high as he has been.
For More Great Content
Are you desiring top-tier content that covers everything? From thrilling sports and intoxicating entertainment news to gaming tips and professional betting advice, Total Apex covers it all. Delve into our no-fluff articles to stay ahead of the game with the latest sports action, uncover the hottest trends in entertainment, and get the latest scoops in the gaming industry that will take your experiences to the next level.
Finally, our betting advice will give you a decisive edge over the competition and increase your odds of beating the books. Whether you’re looking to stay updated or gain a competitive edge, Total Apex is your one-stop shop for all things compelling and relevant. Don’t forget we cover Fantasy Sports, too!
Check out all our sites: Total Apex Sports, Total Apex Fantasy Sports, Total Apex Entertainment, Total Apex Sports Bets, and Total Apex Gaming. Out of the ashes of obscurity will rise a beast. Always remember to Respect The Hustle! Follow us on Twitter/X @TotalApexSports to stay informed.
