The Houston Texans are bolstering their running back lineup with the signing of Cam Akers, according to multiple reports on Sunday night. Akers, who worked out for the Texans earlier in the day, will be joining his third NFL team after stints with the Los Angeles Rams and the Minnesota Vikings.
Akers, 25, began his NFL career as a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams. Over three-plus seasons with the Rams, he showcased his potential despite facing significant setbacks, including a torn Achilles tendon before the 2021 season. His time with the Rams culminated in a trade to the Minnesota Vikings last September.
During his brief tenure with the Vikings, Akers played in six games, amassing 138 yards and one touchdown on 38 carries, alongside 11 receptions for 70 yards. However, his 2022 season was abruptly ended by another Achilles tendon tear in Week 9. Despite these injuries, Akers has demonstrated resilience and capability throughout his career. Over 36 NFL games, including 15 starts, he has rushed for 1,581 yards and 11 touchdowns, complemented by 38 catches for 320 yards and one receiving touchdown.
Akers’ arrival in Houston comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance the Texans’ backfield. Earlier this offseason, the Texans made a notable move by trading for former Pro Bowl running back Joe Mixon from the Cincinnati Bengals. Mixon brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record, adding depth and versatility to the team’s offensive arsenal.
The Texans’ running back room also features Dameon Pierce, who has shown promise in his first two NFL seasons, rushing for 1,355 yards. With the addition of Akers, the Texans are looking to create a dynamic and competitive running back unit capable of supporting their offensive schemes and providing a consistent ground attack.
Despite his injury history, Akers’ signing is seen as a strategic move by the Texans. His ability to overcome adversity and contribute effectively when healthy could provide a significant boost to the team. Akers’ versatility as both a runner and a receiver out of the backfield offers the Texans a dual-threat option, which could be crucial in diversifying their offensive playbook.
Incorporating Akers alongside Mixon and Pierce gives the Texans a well-rounded running back group with a mix of power, speed, and pass-catching abilities. This depth will be essential as the Texans navigate the rigors of the NFL season and aim to establish a strong ground game to complement their aerial attack.
As the Texans prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of Cam Akers signifies their commitment to strengthening their roster and addressing key areas of need. Akers’ journey, marked by perseverance and a relentless work ethic, aligns with the Texans’ vision of building a resilient and competitive team.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Akers integrates into the Texans’ system and whether he can return to the form that made him a standout prospect coming out of college. With training camp on the horizon, the competition in the Texans’ running back room is set to intensify, promising an exciting preseason as players vie for their roles on the team.
In conclusion, the Houston Texans’ signing of Cam Akers marks a significant step in their efforts to revamp their running back corps. By adding a player of Akers’ caliber and potential, the Texans are positioning themselves to make a strong impact in the upcoming NFL season.