The Los Angeles Rams' fanbase may have reason to mark their calendars for Week 12 with optimism, as head coach Sean McVay has indicated the likely return of running back Kyren Williams. The matchup against the Arizona Cardinals will set the stage for Williams' comeback after a sidelined period due to an ankle sprain incurred in Week 6.
With the team approaching its bye in Week 10 and standing down in Week 11, Williams remains ineligible to rejoin the squad until the conclusion of a mandatory four-game absence imposed by his injured reserve status. Despite the hiatus not counting towards the IR duration, the forthcoming game against the Cardinals is poised to welcome back the promising back.
Williams' Sprain Confirmed
Williams' injury occurred during a robust performance against the same Arizona team earlier in the season, where he tallied a personal best of 158 rushing yards and a touchdown before exiting in the late stages of the contest.
A subsequent MRI confirmed the sprain, ruling out more severe damage but triggering a forced stint off the field that has seen the Rams negotiate the absence of one of their offensive keystones. In the wake of Williams' injury, the workload has been distributed between Royce Freeman and Darrell Henderson Jr., who have shouldered the running responsibilities for the Rams.
Williams, in his second year, has showcased a versatile play style, contributing significantly in passing protection and on the ground, totaling 561 scrimmage yards and seven touchdowns to his name this season. His rehabilitation progress and practice updates will be scrutinized closely, as his reintegration to the Rams' offense will be pivotal.
However, Williams' playtime in Week 12 is contingent on clearance from the Rams' medical staff post his recovery from the ankle sprain, with the team eager to fortify their ranks with his diverse skill set. The anticipation of Williams' return is a testament to his impact on the field, having demonstrated an early knack for elevating the Rams' offensive game.
The Arizona Cardinals will once again be an evaluating ground for his recovery and readiness to pick up where he left off, contributing to the Rams' midseason efforts to bolster their offensive playbook. As the NFL season progresses, the Rams look to recalibrate and push forward, with hopes that Williams' return against the Cardinals will mark a positive turn in their campaign.
Fans and analysts alike await the Week 12 action, where Williams’ performance will be under the spotlight after a patiently awaited return to gridiron action.