The Los Angeles Rams were dealt a blow when Cam Akers unfortunately tore his Achilles ahead of the 2021 season. It seemed like Akers would be forced to miss the entirety of the season, but miraculously was able to return in Week 18 and played a big role during their Super Bowl run.
The running back showed he could be a bell-cow back in 2020 when he took over the lead back role and ran with it. Now healthy, Akers figures to retake the lion’s share of snaps in the backfield in 2022, adding another offensive weapon for head coach Sean McVay to lean on throughout the year.
Aside from a larger role, Akers is also finally getting to wear his preferred to No. 3 as the team announced he is officially making the switch, via their Twitter account:
Back in 3️⃣ pic.twitter.com/yIs32kbXzN
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) April 27, 2022
The plan was for Akers to switch to No. 3 for the 2021 season, but because he would have had to buy out the remainder of his No. 23 jersey’s inventory, which was around $500,000, he decided to wait a year instead. By waiting, Akers did not incur any costs, which is great for someone still playing on their rookie contract.
Fans might be concerned about what this means regarding Odell Beckham Jr.’s future with the team, but the receiver said at the time that he was going to wear No. 3 temporarily and don No. 13 should he re-sign in Los Angeles. So far, there have not been any reports on an agreement of a deal but the two sides have expressed interest in a reunion.
Regardless, Akers will get to sport his new number in a lead-back role, which should excite fans who have been waiting for him to break out. With his ability to run and catch the football, Akers is poised to finally show the league he is a star.
