Rams' Kyren Williams Faces Resurgent Rivals in Battle for NFC West Rushing Crown

Mark J. Rebilas / USA Today

The race for the NFC West rushing title in 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. With elite talent across the board and renewed health in backfields throughout the division, Rams standout Kyren Williams will face fierce competition in his bid to retain the rushing crown. Williams enters the season as the reigning NFC West rushing leader after a dominant 2024 campaign, capitalizing on Christian McCaffrey’s injury-shortened season. Despite falling just short of the overall league rushing title in 2023 (behind McCaffrey), Williams showcased a combination of vision, toughness, and reliability that kept the Rams' offense on schedule. But McCaffrey, one of the most dynamic and complete backs in football, is out for redemption. Fully recovered and reportedly in peak form, the 49ers’ All-Pro is primed for a bounce-back season.

“Christian is arguably the best player in the NFL,” said 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk. “He looks so healthy, so explosive. He changes everything.”

The division's elite company doesn't stop there. Arizona's James Conner has quietly built a case as one of the most consistent rushers in the NFC. After back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, Conner ended 2024 just 205 yards shy of the crown. With continued improvement and a sturdy offensive line, the veteran back could finally make his title push in Year 5 with the Cardinals.

Perhaps the most intriguing wildcard in the race is Seattle’s Kenneth Walker III. After two frustrating seasons plagued by injuries and subpar blocking, Walker is entering 2025 with something to prove—and the tools to do it. Under a new Shanahan-style offensive scheme and behind a healthier, more athletic offensive line—including first-round pick Grey Zabel—Walker is expected to return to the form that earned him a 1,000-yard rookie campaign.

“Walker forced a career-high 61 missed tackles on a career-low 153 touches,” noted CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso, highlighting the back's efficiency despite a declining yards-per-carry average. “He’s one of the most naturally talented running backs in the league.”

So, with four legitimate 1,000-yard backs—each with a claim to the throne—the NFC West rushing title has never been more up for grabs. Williams will need another year of elite production to hold off challengers, but the competition will be relentless.

Prediction? If McCaffrey stays healthy, his versatility and workload in Kyle Shanahan’s offense may give him the edge. But don’t discount Williams’ steady presence or Conner’s grinding style. And if Seattle’s offense gels early, Kenneth Walker could surprise them all.

One division. Four star backs. One rushing crown. Let the race begin.