USA TODAY Sports

Rams' Rivers Ready for RB2 Role

Originally posted on Los Angeles Rams on SI
By Anthony Licciardi | Last updated 9/24/23

The Los Angeles Rams are preparing for a Monday Night Football matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals. They’ll be doing so without running back Cam Akers.

Akers was traded to the Minnesota Vikings on Wednesday after an uninspiring Week 1 performance and an effective benching a week later. Fellow ‘back Kyren Williams has taken over the lead back role in Los Angeles, cementing his role in fantasy lineups across the country.

Williams’ strong start to the year—29 attempts for 104 yards and three scores on the ground—has earned him plenty of snaps moving forward. However, he won’t be hoarding all of the Rams’ rushes.

Running back Ronnie Rivers impressed this preseason, helping him make the roster out of camp. He hasn’t produced much at all, just one catch for four yards. But with Akers out of the picture, permanently, there’s room for growth.

Head coach Sean McVay spoke about his new second-string running back.

“I think just the consistent body of work, whether that be through the preseason, in practices, the way he works, the ownership,” McVay said. “He and Kyren are similar type players in terms of their build and their versatility.”

McVay has been more than willing to give snaps to players most fans haven’t heard of, Rivers included. When Williams needs a breather, or Los Angeles wants to give a slightly different look, Rivers grants them that ability. He’s more than capable on passing downs and looked fundamentally sound throughout the preseason.

“It’s just continuing to evaluate him and just his overall feel for the game, his competitiveness,” McVay added. “And I’ve been pleased with a lot of things he’s done on [special] teams as well.”

Rivers has done his part to earn McVay’s trust, and the ensuing opportunity only confirms that progress. Los Angeles won’t be employing a true timeshare anytime soon, but Rivers should be on fans’ radar. He’ll look to make his first significant impact on Monday night.

This article first appeared on Los Angeles Rams on SI and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: