Key Takeaways:
– The Dallas Cowboys weigh the prospects of veteran running back Cam Akers joining their team.
– The Cowboys need more effective running back options, with Ezekiel Elliott seemingly having little left to offer.
– Despite injuries, Cam Akers’ robust experience and prior performance suggest he could provide the Cowboys with a much-needed edge.
Expanding Dallas Cowboys’ Running Back Options
With the present shortage of remarkable options for its running back position, the Dallas Cowboys’ roster might get a valuable addition with the free agent Cam Akers. According to Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay, the team might find the 24-year-old’s skillset beneficial, given that his past performance with the Minnesota Vikings and the Los Angeles Rams demonstrated considerable promise.
Current Running Back Conundrum at Dallas
The Cowboys’ current choices for the running back position pose some challenges. Despite having Ezekiel Elliott earmarked for leadership of the backfield, his past performances and increasing age make the Cowboys’ position precarious. As claimed by Kay, Elliott’s gradual decline in performance and the lack of capable candidates make Akers a plausible contender for the leading running back role.
Keeping the current situation in perspective, the Cowboys roped in veteran player Royce Freeman this offseason and decided to return Elliott. Several other familiar names such as Deuce Vaughn, Rico Dowdle, and Malik Davis are also set to return to the roster. Yet, none of them have ever been front runners for the full-time starting back position. This scenario further cements Elliott’s impending exit. Even Freeman, with only one game start after the 2019 season, seems far from being the first-choice.
Potential Upside of Cam Akers’ Inclusion
Despite some hitches in Akers’ career, including an injury streak since 2020, some continue to argue in favor of his potential. His history as the Rams’ running back and recording 786 yards and nine touchdowns on 4.2 yards per carry in the 2022 season alone demonstrates his capabilities. Moreover, he was part of the Rams’ championship-winning team during the 2021 season, another reason to consider him a viable option for the Cowboys.
His readiness to return to the field, despite suffering from a torn Achilles in 2023, testifies to his strong motivation and commitment. Kay further emphasizes Akers’ significant upside, considering the absence of compelling alternatives in the free agency market.
Akers’ resilience is apparent with his recovery time being less than the traditional timeline after his Achilles tear. His potential of becoming game-ready before the beginning of the season strengthens his position. A low-risk, veteran-minimum contract could very well make him a valuable asset to any capable team with a roster spot.
Career Highlights of Cam Akers
Akers might have faced struggles during his stint with the Vikings in 2023, but his relatively short, yet illustrious career has earned him a Super Bowl victory and opportunities as a starting back. Throughout his career, he’s covered a cumulative of 1,581 yards and scored 13 touchdowns on 4.0 yards per carry.
Although a decision is pending from the Cowboys, Cam Akers seems fierce and ready to seize the moment. His addition to the upcoming 2024 season could potentially deliver an unexpected, yet welcome boost to the Cowboys’ running back lineup.
The Dallas Cowboys continue to strengthen their contingent, but whether Cam Akers becomes part of their roster remains a subject of curiosity and keen anticipation among sports enthusiasts. Any updates regarding this development will be followed closely and reported with timeliness.