Los Angeles Rams keeping former Auburn running back busy

Published On: August 27, 2025

With 26 rushing attempts throughout the first two weeks of the preseason, former Auburn running back Jarquez Hunter was tied for the NFC lead.

Mike LaFleur, the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, stated on Friday that the youngster needs that.

“You saw some really good stuff from Auburn, and Ja is a good football player,” LaFleur said. That’s why we chose him early on that Saturday in May or April, whichever the draft is, and why Les (Snead), the general manager of the Rams, and his crew were able to identify him immediately.

However, he is a guy who, once more, believes that things would get better the more chances he has. He is purposefully correct. For any running back, especially a rookie, being in that running-back room with all those running backs and with (running-backs coach) Ron (Gould) is fantastic because you’re held to such a high standard. He will therefore be an additional component, and naturally, everything will work itself out.

In a 31–21 victory over the Dallas Cowboys on August 9, Hunter ran for 41 yards on 11 attempts, played 27 offensive snaps, and returned a kickoff for 21 yards. It was his first game wearing a Los Angeles uniform.

I haven’t experienced physical contact in a long time because my last football game was in November, Hunter stated after the game. Just going back out there and doing things with the guys felt fantastic. I thought camp went quite smoothly. It was also rather enjoyable to attend my first NFL game.

Hunter returned in a 23–22 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers on August 16 with 55 yards on 15 carries and a 2-yard reception on 30 offensive snaps.

After the game, Hunter remarked, “I think it was pretty good.” Simply going downhill, reading my read keys, and attempting to assault the defenders so they won’t want to tackle me.

When the Rams play the Cleveland Browns at 12:00 CDT on Saturday in Cleveland to wrap up their preseason schedule, Hunter will have another chance to play.

Hunter moved up to fourth place on Auburn’s all-time rushing list with 3,371 rushing yards after running for 1,201 yards and eight touchdowns on 187 carries in 2024, including a 278-yard burst in a 24-10 victory over Kentucky on October 26. On April 26, Hunter left for the NFL as a fourth-round draft pick.

Despite the return of leading runner Kyren Williams, who ran 1,299 yards and 14 touchdowns on 316 carries in 2024, Los Angeles selected Hunter.

Blake Corum, the Rams’ number two rusher, is also returning. In 2024, Williams dominated the Los Angeles backfield, gaining 207 yards on 58 carries.