Could Los Angeles Rams Draft USC RB MarShawn Lloyd on Day 3?

The Los Angeles Rams certainly don't need a starting running back, but an explosive option added to the backfield could already be residing in Los Angeles.

Nov 18, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Trojans running back MarShawn Lloyd (0) runs during / Jason Parkhurst-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Rams have already struck gold at the running back positioning. Turning 2022 fifth-round pick Kyren Williams into one of the league’s most productive backs has given the Rams a strength instead of the uncertainty that was projected to obscure the backfield.

Williams was incredible in 2023, logging 1,350 yards per scrimmage and an NFL-leading 95.3 rushing yards per game. He was one of the league’s most efficient backs, posting the third-most rushing yards despite playing in just 12 games.

While the performances of backup running backs Royce Freeman and Darrell Henderson were admirable in their relief of Williams, and Ronnie Rivers was decent in limited action, Los Angeles could use another playmaker in the backfield.

Nov 18, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Trojans running back MarShawn Lloyd (0) runs during / Jason Parkhurst-USA TODAY Sports

They may find one on Day 3 of the NFL Draft, and one may be hiding in their backyard.

USC running back MarShawn Lloyd put forward a strong 2023 campaign, and after helping himself out during the pre-draft circuit, could be on Los Angeles’ radar.

Lloyd ran an impressive 4.46-second 40-yard dash at 220 pounds, promoting optimism in his power profile. He hasn’t tapped into it much yet, leaving meat on the bone between the tackles and in short-yardage situations, but it’s an intriguing aspect of his game.

The core of his game, though, is elite acceleration and agility that makes him a home-run threat from anywhere on the field. Williams showed more playmaking potential than most anticipated, but a more dynamic counterpart could benefit the offense.

Lloyd may also be a boost to the passing game. Williams was no slouch in this department and is almost certainly a better pass protector, but in limited work, Lloyd posted 17.8 yards per reception in 2023.

He’s likely just the lesser part of a committee, but that big-play potential is evident everywhere in his game, and manufacturing easy touches into his playmakers’ hands has never been difficult for head coach Sean McVay.

As a late-round option, Lloyd would have the most juice in the Rams backfield and provide an explosive option to turn to for specific packages or in the event of another Williams ailment. 

McVay isn’t one to turn to a committee when not utterly necessary, but taking a small portion of the burden off his star running back’s shoulders could be less of a sacrifice with a strong Day 3 pick.