3 biggest surprises from the initial 53-man LA Rams roster that have shocked fans

Kyren Williams is the new punt returner

I love Kyren Williams as the feature running back for this offense. But I don't think that I am the only one who would be very content simply to see 17 games plus postseason games out of the guy before adding more responsibilities to his plate. And yet, that is exactly what the team has done, as the team formed the initial 53-man roster. Now, we learn that RB Kyrel Williams will be the team's punt returning.

Say what?

Yes, that's right. A guy who played just 12 games in 2023 will now be the team's punt returner as well.

Okay, does anyone else see the irony in this plan? Let me break it down for you:

1. The Rams love Kyren Williams production, and want to optimize the number of touches he gets to ensure a solid rushing attack all season.
2. The LA Rams were concerned about RB Kyren Williams durability. Therefore, the team drafted RB Blake Corum, to shoulder the burden of week-to-week running. That will allow Williams to remain rested all season long
3. With more capacity available thanks to the presence of rookie RB Blake Corum, the team wants to use RB Kyren Williams to . . . (SEE 1)

If the Rams want to increase the number of touches to Kyren Williams, why not simply run him more often in games? Well, we know that won't work, because Williams has durability concerns. So how does using him as a punt returner circumvent those injury concerns?

I know that the team is trying to do here. But this is akin to driving in reverse to avoid damaging the front bumper. It's just an awkward exercise in futility. I mean, if the team wants more Kyren Williams touches, call his number on offensive plays. He is effective at running or catching the football.

But using him, and not another offensive weapon depth player, seems reckless. Had Williams had a 17-game season under his belt in the past? Sure, go for it. But the guy played just 12 games in 2023, just 70.6 percent of the gams. That seems like a more alarming area of concern than trying to squeeze another 1.0 yards out of the punt return average.

Did I miss any?

As always, thank you for reading