Cam Akers might not be the Houston Texans’ leading rusher in 2024, but he’s going to be a factor in the revamped ground game.
He has to, at this point. Four preseason games into his tenure with the Texans and the former second-round pick has looked the part of a starter while facing off against second-team defenders.
And for those on the fence about his status, he crossed over to the safe side by halftime in Saturday’s 17-15 preseason finale win over the Los Angeles Rams at NRG Stadium.
I’m not sure how much more you need to see with Cam Akers.
He should be able to sit on the bench and get ready for the Colts, like the rest of the 1’s and 2’s.
— Chancellor Johnson (@ChancellorTV) August 24, 2024
Akers, perhaps the biggest surprise from the Texans’ bubble roster players entering 2024, finished with a team-leading 53 rushing yards on seven carries. He also finished with three catches for 19 yards and four total first downs.
Health has always been the top concern for the former top high school running back recruit. He’s entering Year 5 but already has a pair of torn Achilles tendons during his tenures with the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings.
No matter what happens with Cam Akers this season, it’s insane that he’s on an NFL field and playing this well after two Achilles injuries.
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 pic.twitter.com/t39WIx21Q1
— Kyle Yates (@KyleYNFL) August 24, 2024
Since signing back in late July, Akers has finished with at least one highlight play per game. In the Hall of Fame game against the Chicago Bears, he put a pair of defenders on skates with his quick-cut upfield for a first down.
In last week’s preseason home opener against the New York Giants, Akers averaged a team-high 4.8 yards per run and finished second in rushing yards with 29.
The Texans need consistency on the ground. Mixon, who signed a three-year deal worth $27 million this offseason, will see a bulk of reps, though the No. 2 option remains a mystery.
It’ll be an issue if anyone other than Joe Mixon gets carries over Cam Akers.
— B.Scott from Hiram Clarke (@brandonkscott) August 24, 2024
Dameon Pierce, who did not play in Saturday’s contest, likely isn’t going anywhere despite underwhelming results in the preseason. Akers, who played in a similar offensive system with the Rams as a rookie, might be better a fit for reps under Bobby Slowik’s zone-heavy offense.
Akers delivered once more on Saturday for what should cap off his role on the active roster. For his performance against his former team, Akers is Texans Wire’s Player of the Week.