Having torn his Achilles in the preseason, Los Angeles Rams RB Cam Akers was not expected to return this year. The fact that he was activated at the backend of 2021 was a little surprising. Will fantasy football managers be able to rely upon Akers this week? What is the latest regarding Akers’ injury, and is he playing this week?
Update: Cam Akers is active for the Rams Week 18 game against the 49ers.
Is Cam Akers playing today vs. the 49ers?
When Akers tore his Achilles just over five months ago, nobody expected to see him back this season. The fact he is even in contention is a testament to his will to return.
In his absence, Darrell Henderson Jr. and Sony Michel have played well. Akers though just offers that X-factor. His work in the passing game is far above that of Michel’s, and the Rams will be eager for him to return in the postseason.
It has not been stated yet whether Akers will be on a snap count, but I would expect that Sean McVay will ease him back in.
In order for the Rams to win the Super Bowl, it’s worth remembering that it’s a marathon, not a sprint. With Henderson out, I would think we see Akers in relief of Michel this week rather than any indication of him as the starter.
Akers’ absence in 2021
Having missed the entire season to date with his Achilles injury, Akers has spent his time rehabbing and working hard to be ready, if needed, for a postseason run. He knows the playbook and so will not need the time to get up to speed.
Akers will want to repay the team who activated him with three regular-season games left in order to allow him to qualify for the year’s pension credit. If he can do that by showing flashes of what made him so exciting to watch towards the end of last year we are in for a treat. If Akers can come back and help the Rams to a Super Bowl victory, his 2021 season will be remembered for matters other than the Achilles injury.
Is it too early to put Akers back in your fantasy lineups?
This is not the week to rely on Akers for fantasy. In that aspect, it’s a lost year. Nevertheless, Michel has been a revelation over the past five weeks. Three games with over 20 points coincide with his increased nose for the end zone.
Last time out against the 49ers, Michel only saw 25% of snaps. Yet, if he hits closer to the 90% mark he has over the past five games, we could be in for another big week. I would be comfortable starting him in this game, even against a team only giving up 106 rush yards per game. Michel should be able to find the end zone this week. If he does, then 15+ points are attainable.