Rams RB Cam Akers Ready For Pressure In Contract Year: 'I Know What's At Stake'

Heading into the final year of his rookie deal, Los Angeles Rams running back Cam Akers realizes how important his performance this season is

Not too long ago, Los Angeles Rams running back Cam Akers' tenure with the team seemed to be nearing its end.

In 2021, the former second-round pick tore his Achilles during the offseason and missed nearly the entire season. Then after a weak start to the 2022 season, Akers reportedly requested a trade from the Rams and missed three weeks as a result.

Of course, Akers and the Rams worked through their differences rather than finding a trade, and it turned out to be a turning point for him. Akers had a very strong performance to close the season, rushing for over 100 yards in each of the Rams' final three games. With his strong performance, Akers cemented himself as the Rams' starting back for at least the short term.

To retain that title for the long term, though, Akers will have to prove that his late-season run wasn't just a fluke. The Florida State product is entering the final season of his rookie deal, so he will be playing for his future in Los Angeles. Akers recognizes the pressure that comes with a contract year, but his focus is just going out there and doing his best.

“I know what it means,” Akers said, per Pro Football Talk. “I know what’s at stake here, but I’m here to play football. That’s going to come, Lord willing, as long as I do my part. So, just here to play football. That’ll come.”

Akers will have plenty of chances to make his case for a new deal this season. He's still the clear starter in the backfield, and coach Sean McVay previously said he expects Akers to be a key figure in the offense.

"He's had a great offseason," McVay said on "Sirius XM Mad Dog Radio." "I love the rapport that he's established with Ron Gould, our new running backs coach. Cam is going to be a central figure in this offense. I think he's priming himself to have a great year."

Akers added that he doesn't have a set goal in mind, but he is "trying to shoot for the stars." 

---

You can follow Jonathan Alfano on Twitter @JonAlfano_News

Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Rams? Click Here

Want to join in on the discussion? Click here to become a member of the Ram Digest message board community today!

Follow Ram Digest on Twitter and Facebook.

Want even more L.A. Rams news? Check out the SI.com team page here.