Sean McVay Announces Surprise Starting Role Following Cuts

Sean McVay made an unexpected announcement following final roster cuts on Tuesday, naming star RB Kyren Williams as the starting punt returner despite his workhorse duties on the offensive side of the ball.

Williams had 14 punt returns for 151 yards during his final year at Notre Dame, but otherwise has limited experience at the position. He compiled 260 yards from scrimmage for the Rams in 2023 and expects to be an offense focal point in the new season, making this decision a surprising add to his workload.

Tutu Atwell is projected to be the kick returner. Williams' elusiveness and agility appealed to McVay, and he'll now take on additional responsibilities.

Rams Announce RB Kyren Williams as Starting Punt Returner

McVay explained to the media that this was a way to get Williams more touches and let him touch the ball in space. With the NFL's new kickoff rules, it makes sense to protect Williams on a more familiar facet of special teams.

Rookie RB Blake Corum has gotten work as the punt returner as well. Should Williams falter or get physically worn down, Corum is the likely next man up.

The organization and fan base expect the team to compete for an NFC West crown. It's a reasonable expectation, given the emergence of Williams and Puka Nacua on top of Matthew Stafford and McVay's respective brilliance.

Williams could quickly become one of the better punt returners in the NFL. However, overworking star RB Todd Gurley helped reduce his career. If the Rams aren't careful, they'll risk causing the same damage to another rising star.

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