Grading This Running Back Reunited With The Vikings Via Trade
With the NFL Trade Deadline approaching, it is an opportunity to see how to improve a roster's depth. It could also be an opportunity for a player to get readjusted to a better scheme or reunite with a close connection with a coach. Cam Akers has done that, as he has reunited with head coach Kevin O'Connell and the Minnesota Vikings. He was acquired via trade with the Houston Texans, and the details are below.
Details Of Cam Akers Trade
Houston Texans Acquire: 2026 6th Round Pick
Minnesota Vikings Acquire: RB Cam Akers and 2026 7th Round Pick
Houston Texans Side
With Joe Mixon and Dameon Pierce returning from their injuries, it was clear Akers was the odd man out. Honestly, Akers was not a great fit on this offense. Dare Ogunbowle was a better fit and more useful on special teams. Akers was not in the Texan's plans long-term, and getting a late-round pick upgrade is solid value for a running back whose 3rd on the depth chart.
Minnesota Vikings Side
The Vikings acquiring a running back via trade is telling. Especially with Aaron Jones's injury and durability concerns. The Vikings acquiring a running back is a good sign that his injury is worse than anticipated. Besides Ty Chandler, the Vikings had no depth behind him. Myles Gaskin is terrible, and CJ Ham is a better fit as a fullback. Akers makes some sense, as he knows the playbook. He was on the Vikings roster in 2023 and had a connection with the coaching staff. The problem is that the Akers have looked terrible lately for the Texans. Maybe a change of scenery and a better schematic fit will make Akers look better.
Grades For Cam Akers Trade
Houston Texans - A
Minnesota Vikings - C
The Texans get the higher grade in this deal. They got a pick upgrade for a player not in their long-term and short-term plans. As for the Vikings, getting Akers is not a terrible idea. He knows the playbook, the Vikings needed depth at running back, and he is connected with the coaching staff. However, he did not look great during his time in Houston. At least the draft picks are late-round, conditional ones, so it isn't an overpayment. Hopefully, this move works out for both teams in the long term.
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