Cam Akers Joins New Orleans Saints: A Fresh Start for the Veteran Running Back

In a significant roster move, the New Orleans Saints are set to sign veteran running back Cam Akers. This marks Akers’ fifth team in just three years, as he looks to rejuvenate his career after struggling to secure a stable starting position since his Super Bowl victory with the Los Angeles Rams in 2021.

A Rollercoaster Career

Akers, a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, has experienced both highs and lows throughout his career. Following a promising start with the Rams, where he rushed for over 600 yards and contributed as both a runner and receiver, Akers faced adversity. In 2021, he tore his Achilles tendon and missed a significant portion of the season. However, he made a notable comeback, playing an essential role in the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI victory.

Despite his earlier successes, Akers’ subsequent seasons have been challenging. He lost his starting job in 2022 and was subsequently traded, ultimately spending time with the Minnesota Vikings and the Houston Texans. Last season, he managed only 444 rushing yards and two touchdowns combined over two separate stints with the Vikings and Texans.

New Beginnings with the Saints

As he joins the Saints, Akers will back up star running back Alvin Kamara, alongside Kendre Miller and rookie Devin Neal. Akers attended the Saints’ minicamp as an unrestricted free agent, expressing enthusiasm about his new opportunity.

"I’m still hungry and I’m young," Akers stated during the minicamp, reflecting his determination to prove himself. "I’ve got a lot of tread on my tires, and I want to rewrite my story personally."

Coaching Support and Expectations

Saints coach Kellen Moore shared confidence in Akers’ abilities, describing him as "an experienced player" who has demonstrated versatility in the league. "As you go through this, you’re always trying to evaluate as many players as you possibly can," Moore stated, underscoring the team’s keen interest in Akers’ potential contributions.

Career Stats and Future Outlook

Throughout his career, Akers has accumulated 2,025 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. His playoff statistics further bolster his resume, showcasing 432 yards and two scores across three postseason appearances with the Rams and Vikings. While his performance over the last two years has not matched his early career highs, his potential remains evident.

Akers’ previous contract was a one-year, $1.175 million deal with the Texans, a contract largely absorbed by the Vikings when he joined their roster late in the season.

Conclusion: A Critical Junction for Akers

The signing of Cam Akers by the New Orleans Saints represents both a new chapter for the athlete and a strategic addition for the team. With the backing of a supportive coaching staff and a renewed focus on performance, Akers has the opportunity to reclaim his standing in the NFL. Should he succeed, it not only enhances his standing but also strengthens the Saints’ offensive lineup, potentially paving the way for further success as the season approaches. The future promises to be pivotal for both Akers and the Saints.