Overlooked detail proves the Vikings fleeced the Rams in Akers trade
The Minnesota Vikings pulled off a trade on Wednesday to improve their depth at the RB position. The team acquired RB Cam Akers from the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for a conditional swap of 2026 draft picks. Even if the pick swap wasn't conditional, this is not a bad deal for the Vikes. Akers […]
The Minnesota Vikings pulled off a trade on Wednesday to improve their depth at the RB position.
The team acquired RB Cam Akers from the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for a conditional swap of 2026 draft picks. Even if the pick swap wasn't conditional, this is not a bad deal for the Vikes. Akers was a second-round pick who looked like a future starter just last season.
However, the conditions of the pick swap make this trade a total win for the Vikings.
The Vikings will only be obligated to swap picks with the Rams if Akers eclipses 500 scrimmage yards this season.
This means that if Akers eclipses 500 total yards, the Vikings give the Rams a 2026 6th-round pick in exchange for a 2026 7th-round pick. If Akers doesn't gain 500+ yards, the Vikings do not have to swap picks.
Essentially, if Akers becomes a contributor, the Vikings lose a 6th-round pick in 2026. If he fails to impress and doesn't play a role, the Vikings lose nothing.
The trade is a worthwhile gamble for a Vikings team that has struggled to get anything going on the ground. The team is currently dead-last in the NFL in rushing yards with just 69 total.
In 2022, Akers finished with 786 rushing yards on 188 carries. The back also contributed 13 receptions for 117 yards. To get a player capable of that stat line essentially for free is a steal.
Akers should get acclimated quickly with the Vikings. Akers played in LA while Kevin O'Connell and Wes Phillips were on staff. That familiarity could get Akers involved quickly. I'd expect Mattison to remain the starter for now, but wouldn't be surprised to see the incumbent starter relegated to a third-down back role eventually.
Vikings add to the RB room with Rams trade
Vikings add to the RB room with a trade.
Featured image via © Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports
