Random Ramsdom: B/R calls Akers the team’s most-dangerous new weapon

Regardless of Sean McVay’s preference to use a “running back by committee” approach during the 2020 season, the Rams’ second-round rookie has continued to amass hype and high expectations before he’s even been able to step on a practice field for the team.

Cam Akers is an extremely promising player with the production to back it all up. This far after the draft, the rookie is still being named in list after list as a player to watch this season for the Rams. Most recently, Akers was named by Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox as the team’s most-dangerous new weapon, on either side of the ball.

“Like Gurley, Akers is equally effective as a bruising ball-carrier and as a pass-catcher out of the backfield,” Knox said. “In 2019, he rushed for 1,144 yards and 4.95 yards per carry. He also caught 30 passes and scored 18 total touchdowns.”

“A compact 5’10” and 217 pounds, Akers has the size and the speed (4.47-second 40) needed to immediately emerge as the Rams’ new leading tailback. While he won’t make Rams fans forget about Gurley, he should provide them with plenty of thrills.”

Knox is right that Akers is probably not going to be a 1-for-1 replacement for Gurley but the kid is ready-made to step into this offense and excel. The one-cut slasher play-style and his ability to instantly turn speed into power when running inside will pay-off early and often. He’ll allow the Rams to stay ahead of the chains more often than not and that little detail will add up over the season and fans will reap the benefits come playoff time.

Now for the links.

Rams News:

DC Brandon Staley has big plans in store for CB Jalen Ramsey (TheRams.com)

Stu Jackson highlights how DT Aaron Donald has been staying busy in quarantine (TheRams.com)

Bret Stuter discusses why the Rams should offer a back-up job to QB Cam Newton (Ramblin’ Fan)

Bret Stuter doesn’t think the sky is falling on the Rams (Ramblin’ Fan)

Cameron DaSilva talks about the emergence of CB Darious Williams (The Rams Wire)

NFL News:

Todd Archer discusses all these Dak Prescott and his contract (ESPN)

How close are sports to coming back? (ESPN)

Kristopher Knox lists every NFL team’s most-dangerous new weapon (Bleacher Report)

Adam Wells reports on RB Adrian Peterson and why he thinks Washington can surprise this season (Bleacher Report)

The Browns are auctioning off the chance to help script the first 15 plays of a preseason game (Pro Football Talk)