As is common when training camps start, injuries tend to take over the news cycle for a while. Unfortunately for fantasy managers, the first casualty is second-year running back Cam Akers of the Rams.
In 13 games a season ago Akers rushed for 625 yards and scored three total touchdowns. He was expected to have a breakout season this year, going in the first two rounds of most drafts, both dynasty and re-draft.
Akers will miss the entirety of the 2021 season and may have lingering effects into 2022.
According to journals.sagepub.com – Players who did return to play in the NFL took an average of 9 months to recover after the date of injury. Across all positions, there was a net decrease in power ratings by 22% and a net decrease in approximate value by 23% over 3 years following player return after Achilles tendon rupture.
The Rams aren’t particularly deep at running back, but, will now turn to Darrell Henderson who started 11 games last year. In 15 total games, Henderson had 624 rushing yards and six total touchdowns.
Behind Henderson on the depth chart are Xavier Jones, Raymond Calais, Jake Funk and Otis Anderson.
This may call for a reunion with Todd Gurley.
