NFC North Buzz: Justin Fields drama, Akers to Vikings; Packers, Lions top division
NFC North trade! Vikings add Cam Akers to the mix
Another team in the NFC North looking to bounce back from an 0-2 start are the Minnesota Vikings.
On Wednesday, the Vikings ended the Cam Akers trade rumors by swapping 2026 late-round picks for the Los Angeles Rams running back. While the Vikings seemingly came out of nowhere by making this deal, it’s a trade everyone seen coming and a trade that seemed to have created some relief in L.A, especially with Rams head coach Sean McVay who benched Akers prior to the team’s Week 2 matchup with the San Francisco 49ers.
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Following the team’s loss on Sunday, McVay made it obvious a fresh start was the name of the game for Akers.
"“I have tremendous respect for Cam Akers, but I felt like for our football team today and in this game and as we moved forward, that was going to be the best decision for us,” McVay said, via CBS Sports."
Now that the deal has been made, what does it mean for Akers in Minnesota?
In reuniting Akers with head coach Kevin O’Connell, it seems the Rams found the best situation for the disgruntled running back. O’Connell was the Rams offensive coordinator back in 2020 and 2021, Akers’ first two seasons in the NFL. That familiarity should help Akers and gives the Vikings more depth at the running back position.
With Alexander Mattison serving as the team’s featured back, the Vikings have been seeking a viable backup and that should be a motivated Cam Akers who can be a productive back when healthy. He could also challenge Mattison as a featured back as the season moves forward.
In all, a B+ trade for the Vikings in the NFC North.