Unlocking the Secret Twist That Will Change Everything You Thought You Knew

Here’s a curious thought: can a rookie running back quietly become the secret ingredient that shifts the balance for the Los Angeles Rams this season? Sure, the Rams boast a bona fide star in Kyren Williams, but sometimes, it’s the under-the-radar players who surprise us most. Take Jarquez Hunter, the sharp fourth-round pick from Auburn—offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur’s enthusiasm about him isn’t just coach-speak. With a rookie grinning at potential and slowly carving out his role, one wonders if the Rams’ running back hierarchy might not be as set in stone as it appears. As Matt Stafford’s back issues linger and the offense leans heavy on passing weapons, could this fresh talent be just what the Rams need to keep defenses guessing? Strap in—it’s shaping up to be an intriguing backfield battle.

The Los Angeles Rams already have a star running back, but there should be more than enough touches for everybody else.

According to offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur, Jarquez Hunter is just getting started.

When asked about the rookie fourth-round pick, LaFleur gushed about his ceiling and potential to keep getting better:

“The more opportunities he gets, the better it’s going to be,” LaFleur said of Hunter. “He’s got the right intentionality. Being with all those running backs is great for any running back, let alone a rookie, because you’re held to such high standards. He’ll be another piece to this thing, and, organically, it’ll all figure itself out.”

“The more opportunities he gets, the better it’s going to be.”

OC Mike LaFleur on Jarquez Hunter. | @AuburnFootball pic.twitter.com/0NtfGSKa6R

— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) August 20, 2025

The Auburn product has been a steady contributor during the two preseason games.

He’s combined for 96 yards on 26 carries during those contests, easing him into the offense and getting him more and more involved.

As things stand now, Blake Corum is listed ahead of Hunter in the depth chart, and given his experience, he should be the heavy favorite to be Kyren Williams’ primary backup.

Then again, judging by what he’s shown and LaFleur’s words, it wouldn’t be much of a surprise to see Hunter overtake him, especially given Corum’s unimpressive production as a rookie.

The Rams signed Williams to a three-year, $33 million contract extension this offseason, which looks like a bargain after watching him be among the league leaders in multiple categories since he entered the league.

Of course, the Rams will continue to deploy a pass-heavy offense for as long as Matthew Stafford and Puka Nacua are there, and adding Davante Adams to the mix is also quite helpful.

Still, we’ve seen how all teams need to establish the run to find balance in the playoffs, and with Stafford dealing with nagging back injuries, they might need to trust their running back committee early and often this season.

The post Rams Coach Gives Encouraging Outlook For Rookie RB appeared first on The Cold Wire.