3 Running Backs the Rams Can Add Following Cam Akers Injury

The Los Angeles Rams received some devastating news this morning as running back Cam Akers suffered a torn Achilles injury. He is very likely to miss the entirety of the 2021 season and the team is suddenly very shallow in the backfield behind expected starter Darrell Henderson.

Fortunately, a few free agents remain on the market and more could become available as teams continue to dwindle their rosters down. With that in mind, here are three running backs the Rams should add to the mix.

Cam Akers Injury Update

1. Duke Johnson

One name that sticks out in the free-agent market is dual-threat running back Duke Johnson. The 27-year-old has spent the last two seasons with the Houston Texans and certainly seems like a capable backup option to Henderson. Johnson has averaged 4.2 yards per attempt in his career as well as 31.1 receiving yards per game. He would give the Rams a player capable of being on the field for rushing or passing plays. Johnson has also posted at least 600 yards from scrimmage in five of his six NFL seasons. Head coach Sean McVay could find a way to use that to his advantage.

2. Todd Gurley

Talk about a fascinating storyline. Reuniting veteran Todd Gurley with team that released him just over a year ago seems like a stretch. However, it makes sense. Gurley is coming off his worst NFL season statistically, but he still managed to rack up 678 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns. The 26-year-old is built to be a ground-and-pound running back and could complement Henderson quite well in this high-octane offense. He has proven to be a capable receiver as well, boasting a 72.3% catch percentage in his career. Don't be surprised if Gurley ends up in Los Angeles once again.

3. Adrian Peterson

Reports claim 15-year veteran Adrian Peterson has been working hard in the offseason with plans to still play in the NFL. If that is the case, the Rams should at least be interested in adding the seven-time Pro Bowler to the training camp roster. Peterson has rushed for at least 600 yards in each of the last three seasons while also averaging 3.9 yards per carry or more. His ability to get in the end zone and grind for the tough yards is admirable in today's game. Plus, Peterson wouldn't cost the Rams too much to sign and would be great mentor in the locker room.

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Larry Rupp is not a FanDuel employee. In addition to providing DFS gameplay advice, Larry Rupp also participates in DFS contests on FanDuel using his personal account, username phillyfan424. While the strategies and player selections recommended in his articles are his personal views, he may deploy different strategies and player selections when entering contests with his personal account. The views expressed in their articles are the author's alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of FanDuel.