For the second time in less than a year, Cam Akers’ status with the Los Angeles Rams is up in the air, shrouded in an air of mystery.
The 24-year-old running back was inactive for the Rams’ home loss to the San Francisco 49ers Sunday. That came on the heels of a report by Fox Sports’ Jay Glazer that the Rams were looking to trade Akers, who started the team’s opener.
After the game, Rams coach Sean McVay mentioned he’s had a “great dialogue” with Akers.
“I think there is going to be an opportunity to see what that looks like moving forward, but it’s not going to be a back-and-forth thing,” McVay said (via The Athletic). “He and I have had great dialogue and we’ll see what happens over the next couple days.”
McVay called Akers’ inactive status a “coaches’ decision.” Akers posted a message on X (formerly Twitter) before the game sharing his confusion.
“I’m just as confused as everybody else. I’m blessed though,” he said.
I’m just as confused as everybody else. I’m blessed though 🤷🏾♂️
— Cam akers (@thereal_cam3) September 17, 2023
The situation immediately drew comparisons to last season, when Akers missed two midseason games because of “personal reasons.” There was widespread speculation at the time the Rams would trade Akers, but he returned to the team and finished the season strong, with 100-plus yards rushing in the final three games.
Akers entered this season as the No. 1 running back, but struggled in the season opener against the Seattle Seahawks (22 carries, 29 yards).
Most fans reacting on social media got the sense this Akers episode will turn out differently than the one last year.
Which makes deactivating him a sign that's he's definitely done with the Rams this time. You punish a guy by benching him. Deactivating him the day of the game against your arch division rival means he's done.
— Felt Football (@FeltFootball) September 17, 2023
You’ve worked your butt off to come back from the most difficult of injuries. You’re one hell of a RB, Cam. Don’t let this stop you.
— Kyle Lindemann (@LuckIsMadeFF) September 17, 2023
Cam Akers – TOLD Y’ALL DON’T BOTHER WITH HIM https://t.co/7VL0GYs60p
— John Frascella (Football) (@LegendSports7) September 17, 2023
If the Rams move on from Cam Akers I think the odds are high Kareem Hunt or Leonard Fournette replace him. https://t.co/qZ2FouNMNR
— Ben Cummins (@BenCumminsFF) September 18, 2023
Best of luck man 🙏
— TommyCharm (@tommy_charm) September 17, 2023
