Fantasy Football: Evaluating Cam Akers After Mixon Injury
The fantasy football landscape shifted dramatically with the news of Joe Mixon's season-ending foot injury. Suddenly, Cam Akers finds himself thrust into the spotlight as the lead back for the Los Angeles Rams. But how should fantasy managers approach Akers in the wake of this development?
Akers' Recent Performance:
Before Mixon's injury, Akers was already seeing a decent amount of work in the Rams' backfield. In the last three weeks, he averaged 10 carries and 3 receptions per game. While not overwhelming numbers, they show a clear trend towards increased usage. Akers also showcased his ability to make big plays, averaging 4.5 yards per carry and scoring a touchdown.
The Rams' Offensive Scheme:
While the Rams' offense is known for its passing game, the role of the running back is still crucial. Akers' ability to be a threat in both the running and passing game makes him a valuable asset. The Rams' coaching staff has shown confidence in him, and it's reasonable to expect his workload to increase significantly with Mixon out.
Potential for Success:
Akers has the talent and opportunity to be a fantasy-relevant player moving forward. The Rams have a strong offensive line, and Akers is a capable runner with breakaway potential. He also has the ability to contribute in the receiving game, providing valuable PPR points.
Concerns:
Despite the optimistic outlook, there are some concerns about Akers' fantasy prospects. Firstly, the Rams' offense is heavily pass-oriented, which may limit his overall touches. Additionally, the emergence of rookie Kyren Williams as a pass-catching back could eat into Akers' target share.
Fantasy Outlook:
While Akers is far from a surefire star, he's definitely a player worth considering in fantasy leagues. In PPR formats, he has the potential to be a weekly starter. In standard scoring, his value will depend on his volume and touchdown opportunities.
Key Takeaways:
- Akers' workload is likely to increase significantly with Mixon's injury.
- The Rams' offensive scheme suits Akers' skillset.
- He has the potential to be a valuable fantasy asset, especially in PPR formats.
- Concerns remain about his overall touches and target share.
Overall:
Cam Akers has a chance to be a breakout star in the second half of the season. His value has increased considerably with Mixon's injury, and he should be considered a strong pickup for fantasy managers. However, it's important to remember that he's not a guaranteed top-tier back and his success will depend on his ability to capitalize on his expanded role.
