The running back position is in good hands for the next few years. With guys such as Saquon Barkley, Alvin Kamara, Dalvin Cook, Christian McCaffrey and of course, Derrick Henry, the position has some big names. Last season, a crop of younger backs came in. Jonathan Taylor was one, there was Clyde Edwards-Helaire, DeAndre Swift and here’s another one to add to the list. Cam Akers out of Florida State. After a quiet introductory year, he was ready to take that next step as the Rams number one running back. Unfortunately, Cam will miss the entire 2021 season. He tore his Achilles tendon.
I enjoyed watching him in college at Florida State and I became a bigger fan after his rookie season in the NFL. The first thing that immediately stands out to me about his game is his vision. He’s that patient runner and allows the lanes to open before he bursts through for yards. Cam is such a smooth runner out the backfield. He reminds me so much of Arian Foster. Although I said he’s smooth with his feet, he’s not afraid to show you his toughness with the ball in his hands. Cam gives you that one fake and defenders are spun around. To be a successful running back, it starts with trusting your offensive line and I saw that all during the 2020 season. One thing that’s been lost in the NFL these days is the three-down back. That’s Cam. Not only is he a runner, he’s a nice receiver out of the backfield. When the ball hits his hands, he has the agility and quickness to make people miss in the open field. Referring to him as an all-purpose back might be appropriate.
I’m absolutely devastated for Cam. He had an immediate impact last year as a rookie and I was ready to see him pick up where he left off. I was extremely excited for Matt Stafford because he’s never played with a running back who can consistently get his yards. I remember hearing Sean McVay say he was going to involve Cam more in the passing game because of how much he was evolving within the offense. I’m wishing Cam a speedy recovery. The setbacks prepare you for bigger comebacks.
