During the ongoing 2023 season, the LA Rams have been disappointing in their running game. The reason is unknown, whether a reluctance to commit to the runs or the inconsistency in performances from their running backs.
The Rams have failed to put forth a strong ground game display ever since their impressive performance in the first week of the season.
Fans and analysts have been baffled by the inconsistency in the Rams’ rushing attack, lacking miserably in either the planning or execution.
the Rams average a mere 84 rushing yards each game, having them placed 25th in the League. It is not entirely the fault of individual runners, especially running backs Kyren Williams and Cam Akers, as the problems lie deep within the cracks.
The team tried bringing alterations in their running scheme, more inclined towards more gap concepts during the offseason, making players have to adapt to a freshly new playing style.
The core issue rests in the inability to commit to the running game and indecisiveness at the moment, which requires confidence and willingness for ball retention.
The fact that the Rams have only 10-15 carries per game resonates with the cause of the issue. Not giving their running backs enough chances to capitalize is only proving to be detrimental to their chances for the season.
Potential Squad Reinforcement in Line?
The struggles may have forced the Rams to think about newer ways out of the continuous disappointing performances. It appears that the Rams are active in the transfer market, as they have reportedly put forth their interest in signing Jonathan Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts.
Destin Adams of A to Z Sports, Rams, along with Miami Dolphins, Pittsburgh Steelers, Green Bay Packers, Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Washington Commanders, have made contact with Colts regarding Jonathan Taylor’s availability for a transfer.
Rams are known to have a history of looking for top-tier running backs to bolster their Squad. Last season, they went for Christian McCaffrey before being beaten to it by the San Francisco 49ers.
Rams’ interest in Jonathan Taylor solidified owing to the recent trade of Cam Akers to the Minnesota Vikings before their game against the 49ers in Week 2, suggesting their strong pursuit of an impactful running back to compensate or, more likely, improve the vacant space left by Akers.
Taking nothing away from Jonathan Taylor, but a question arises. Is signing Taylor really the solution to the Rams’ woes? Can he really replicate the heroics of McCaffrey or Gurley under Sean McVay’s attack-centric system?
During the seasons from 2020 to 2022, Taylor RYOE (Rushing Yards Over Expected) stats were commendable, ranking 11th in the NFL with 0.25 per attempt. But, excluding his flawless 2021 season, where he ran the game with rushing for over 1800 yards (0.93 RYOE per carry), his performance saw a dip.
Just like other running backs, Taylor’s contribution in running the ball relies on the attacking strategy and the quality of the attacking line. 3 years and counting, his highest reception count in a single season is 40. It was the 2020 season, where he showed a strong desire for reception, with 1.47 yards per run. In 2022, the same dropped to a mere 0.56, sitting rock-bottom in the league in this domain.
There are no doubts about Taylor’s capabilities. He holds an arsenal of technical skills among the running backs in the NFL. However, he is not the profile that the Rams actually need right now. Rams lack pressing in their play, especially in the attacking lines and edge rusher position.
Taking into account the problems that the Rams face, Jonathan Taylor’s arrival does not seem to be a Black and White solution.
