In a post published on June 30, Pioneer Press journalist Charley Walters suggested that if Akers, who had an Achilles injury that ended his season in a Week 9 victory over the Atlanta Falcons, “passes an upcoming physical, look for the free agent to re-sign with the Vikings.”
Walters’ mention of a “coming physical” might indicate that the Vikings are keeping an eye on Akers.
Jones is expected to start at leadback ahead of Ty Chandler, who improved significantly in his second season of the previous campaign.
As the third-best running back on the club, Akers would have an easy path to the 53-man roster.
The Vikings do, however, have a clear-cut kick returner in Kene Nwangwu, and fullback C.J. Ham has established himself as a vital pillar of the offense despite Kevin O’Connell’s shift to a more pass-heavy scheme.
Two weeks into the 2023 season, Akers—a 2020 second-round pick of the Los Angeles Rams—was dealt as the Vikings looked to bolster their running game. His $6.1 million rookie contract, which ended in February, was in its last year.
Familiar with O’Connell from their time in Los Angeles, Akers proved to be proficient as a runner, receiver and blocker, earning O’Connell’s trust early. He played the most snaps (111) behind Mattison from Week 3 to Week 9 before his injury.
