The Los Angeles Rams announced that they traded Cam Akers and a conditional 2026 seventh-round pick to the Minnesota Vikings in exchange for a conditional 2026 sixth-round pick.
Akers’ future immediately came into question when he was a healthy scratch just hours before Los Angeles took on the San Francisco 49ers in Week 2. In his stead, Kyren Williams was named the starter and took the bulk of the snaps against the 49ers.
When the news broke, Akers took to his X account to express his gratitude for the opportunity to play with the Rams:
Thank you LA Rams for the opportunity of a lifetime💙! Next chapter 🙏🏾
— Cam akers (@thereal_cam3) September 20, 2023
Several teams were reportedly interested in trading for Akers, and Minnesota wound up offering an enticing enough package to land the running back.
The Vikings have Alexander Mattison as their current starting running back, but not much reliable depth behind him so their acquisition of Akers gives them a legitimate one-two punch. Minnesota is currently 0-2 and needed some sort of jolt to boost the offense, and Akers could very well be the solution.
Akers should be able to fit in seamlessly as he’ll be reuniting with Kevin O’Connell and Wes Phillips, who were both him during their stints in Los Angeles.
Sean McVay revealed earlier in the week that the team was sifting through trade offers for Akers, and the Vikings were apparently willing to take on Akers. He obviously had his differences with the organization, though McVay emphasized that the decision to move on from him had nothing to do with his previous discontent.
With Akers entering his fourth year and being extension-eligible, it makes sense why Los Angeles was only able to net back a late-round pick swap in 2026. Minnesota could simply allow Akers to walk in free agency if they don’t want to pay him so the risk was minimal on their end.
Regardless, it marks a disappointing end to Akers’ Rams tenure as he is a talented player who can definitely help a team. Without him on the roster, Kyren Williams is expected to work as L.A.’s workhorse for the remainder of the year.
Puka Nacua downplays record-setting day against 49ers
Even without Akers, the Rams have a rising star in Puka Nacua who has been sensational through his first two professional games. After recording 10 catches for 119 yards in Week 1, Nacua followed it up with 15 receptions and 147 yards in Week 2.
Nacua broke several records, but the rookie wideout downplayed his accomplishments and emphasized all he cares about is winning.
