The Los Angeles Rams are expected to begin fielding calls about a potential trade for running back Cam Akers.
Akers, 23, is out Sunday for the Rams game against the Carolina Panthers due to what is listed as personal reasons. NFL Network reports Akers “has philosophical and football-related differences” with Rams coach Sean McVay.
The report also suggests that Akers may have played his last down with the defending Super Bowl champions.
“I would say it’s more like we’re dealing with things internally,” McVay told reporters on Friday. “This is kind of unchartered territory and I think the biggest thing is, out of respect for the situation, we want to keep it internally.”
“He’s going to be okay,” McVay added.
Rams running back Cam Akers (3) runs with the ball against the Cowboys on Oct. 9, 2022. Getty ImagesCommunication between Akers and McVay has remained friendly, per NFL Network, and Akers hasn’t caused a stink inside the Rams locker room.
Malcolm Brown and Darrell Henderson are the Rams’ top two running backs on Sunday, and they also elevated undrafted rookie Ronnie Rivers, who has reportedly impressed the Rams coaching staff.
In 2020, Akers’ rookie season, he averaged 4.3 yards per carry and set himself up for a great 2021 sophomore campaign.
Rams head coach Sean McVay reacts as Cam Akers (3) looks on against the Cowboys on Oct. 9, 2022. Icon Sportswire via Getty ImagesBut Akers tore his Achilles before the season and only saw playing time late in the season through the Super Bowl.
Akers’ standing with the Rams began to go downhill, however, when he fumbled twice in the Rams’ 30-27 win in last season’s divisional round against the then-defending Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Questions about Akers’ role and his place on the depth chart have lingered. And the two sides could be on their way to a breakup.
