The Los Angeles Rams kicked off Week 2 of training camp Monday with their first padded practice week.
Head coach Sean McVay structured the session to focus heavily on the run game, giving the offensive backfield extended work and letting the defensive front engage physically inside.
Matthew Stafford (back), Davante Adams (rest), and Tyler Higbee (rest) were all held out. Still, the day brought standout performances, likely not bigger than rookie running back Jarquez Hunter, who “is continuing to show improvement.” as McVay told ESPN’s Sarah Barshop on Monday. “He’s heavy, he’s got a great body. And even though we’re not truly tackling, you can feel that he is heavy through the hole.”
Hunter Impresses in First-Team Reps
With extra reps available for all backs in Monday’s ground-heavy format, Hunter made the most of his opportunity. The Auburn product got work with the first-team offense and showed the kind of physical, downhill style the Rams are hoping to develop in their young backfield.
“I thought you saw Jarquez do an excellent job,” McVay said, per Brock Vierra of SI.com. He’s heavy. He’s got a great body lean. Even though we’re not truly tackling, you can feel that he is heavy through the hole. He has a really good demeanor. He can stare a hole through you. He’s continuing to show improvement. McVay also noted the rookie’s mental edge.
Hunter was selected by the Rams in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft after a productive college career at Auburn. Known for his burst and physical running style, he has already started to carve out a role.
Hunter enters the year as the No. 3 back on the depth chart behind Kyren Williams and fellow rookie Blake Corum. While Corum has also impressed in camp, Hunter’s performances thus far in camp may open the door for a larger role early in the season.
“I’ve been really pleased with Corum,” McVay said. “Jarquez definitely showed really well today.”
The Rams will need dependable depth at the position. Williams, while productive in 2024, has battled injuries. Corum is still adjusting to the NFL. Hunter’s bruising style could offer change-of-pace value and red-zone upside if he continues to flash in padded practices.
Rams Lean Into Physical Identity
Monday’s emphasis on the run wasn’t just a one-off. McVay is clearly shifting attention toward improving the Rams’ interior toughness.
Last season, the offensive line lacked consistency in short-yardage and goal-line spots. A more physical backfield could help change that.
Hunter fits that mold. At 5-foot-10 and 210 pounds, he runs with a low center of gravity and doesn’t shy away from contact. That profile aligns with what the Rams are building on offense.
Williams is clearly capable of workhorse responsibilities. That said, the Rams are at their best when multiple players of the offense are featured.
The next step will be preseason action. If Hunter can carry this momentum into live games, he could be more than just a depth piece. He’s playing like someone determined to contribute right away.
The Rams open their preseason slate on August 9 against the Dallas Cowboys. Until then, expect Hunter’s name to keep surfacing in camp reports — and maybe, on the final 53-man roster with a meaningful role.
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