Cam Akers looked like he was going to miss the entire 2021 season after he tore his Achilles working out before training camp last July. But miraculously, he recovered in time for the end of the season, and more importantly, the team’s playoff run.
In five games, Akers rushed for 175 yards on 72 carries, also catching 11 passes for 86 yards. The Rams leaned heavily on him in the postseason despite his underwhelming efficiency as a runner, showing confidence in the second-year back.
As remarkable as his recovery was, Akers wasn’t satisfied with the way he played. He told reporters on Thursday that he wouldn’t say he played well, merely doing what he was supposed to do.
"I wouldn't say I did well. … I did what I was supposed to do, but obviously that's not enough for me." –Rams RB Cam Akers returned very quickly from injury last season, but he wasn't satisfied with his play, and he's focused on making big strides this spring pic.twitter.com/jwtVqjdSI3
— Greg Beacham (@gregbeacham) April 21, 2022
Akers showed good burst through the hole and his power as a runner certainly didn’t fall off after suffering the Achilles injury. He was running over defenders seemingly every week, forcing a total of 10 missed tackles on the ground – including four in the Super Bowl.
With a full offseason to prepare for the 2022 campaign, Akers is poised to be the Rams’ workhorse once again next season.