For the Los Angeles Rams, Cam Akers could be replaced by a “Bargain-Basement” RB

October 21, 2022

You’ve probably heard that the Los Angeles Rams and running back Cam Akers are parting ways. Having said that, the Los Angeles Rams should be looking for a new running back before the NFL’s trade deadline on November 1.

For the Los Angeles Rams, Cam Akers could be replaced by a “Bargain-Basement” RB

For the Los Angeles Rams, Cam Akers could be replaced by a "Bargain-Basement" RB

A low-cost option could be appealing to the Los Angeles Rams, who are experiencing financial difficulties and are having difficulty moving the ball on the ground this season.

According to Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox, Cleveland Browns running back D’Ernest Johnson is a prime trade target. Knox cited cap-friendly pricing as a key factor in his decision to pursue this transaction:

“With a bargain-basement one-year, $1.2 million contract, Johnson should be on the radar of every running back-needy team.” according to Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox.

The two teams have also recently traded players, with the Rams acquiring Browns cornerback Troy Hill in April.

Despite Johnson’s low cost, the Browns will pass on him in 2022, despite the fact that his talent is far from cheap.

Last season, the 26-year-old made a big impression as a rookie, rushing 100 times for 534 yards and three touchdowns.

Johnson impressed, but injuries forced him into the starting lineup. He took advantage of the opportunity while Browns running backs Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt were out, but now that they are both back, Johnson’s statistics have declined.

While Chubb is the Browns’ leading rusher, he has yet to receive a single carry. Hunt is the Cleveland Browns’ go-to back on third down and at the goal line, so Johnson stays off the field.

The Rams have every reason to give Johnson a chance to shine in a prominent position. It’s something that head coach Sean McVay hasn’t been able to provide for Akers.

What’s up with Akers?

This season, it appears that Akers has suffered a setback. That is not a coincidence; it is most likely the primary reason why the player and team are currently at odds.

Akers hasn’t always taken advantage of opportunities that have come his way. In comparison, the Rams’ 2020 second-round pick is only averaging three yards per carry.

It’s understandable that rumors about the Rams potentially signing All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey from the Carolina Panthers are circulating.

Johnson is a more affordable option for a team with only $4,931,090 in salary cap space, according to Spotrac.com.

Johnson, who stands 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs 208 pounds, is also a bigger powerhouse than McCaffrey.

The Browns’ third stringer possesses the one-cut mobility that McVay’s zone-based rushing tactics necessitate.

Johnson has the ability to finish strong, as evidenced by his touchdown against the Denver Broncos last season:

The Los Angeles Rams’ running game lacks a reliable chain-mover in Sean McVay’s playbook. Running backs Darrell Henderson, Malcolm Brown, and rookie Kyrrell Williams will not be able to fill the position on their own.

A trade makes sense right now and acquiring Johnson would most likely only require a late-round draft pick for the following year or later.

This is the type of low-risk, high-yield deal that savvy clubs would make to save their seasons.