Cam Akers Eyes NFL Reboot with Saints Minicamp Tryout

Veteran running back Cam Akers is getting another shot to prove he belongs in the NFL. The 25-year-old will attend the New Orleans Saints’ minicamp on a tryout basis this week, according to Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football.

Once viewed as a breakout candidate early in his career, Akers is looking to rekindle the form that made him a second-round pick by the Los Angeles Rams in 2020. After stints with the Texans and Vikings in 2024, Akers now turns his focus to a Saints backfield that could offer a real opportunity if he impresses during camp.

New Orleans remains anchored by five-time Pro Bowler Alvin Kamara, but the rest of the depth chart is far from settled. Kendre Miller, a 2023 third-rounder, has yet to make a significant impact, while rookie Devin Neal — taken in the sixth round of this year’s draft — is still unproven. The team recently added former Chiefs back Clyde Edwards-Helaire, but his role is yet to be defined.

Akers brings both experience and versatility. In 2024, he totaled 444 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 104 carries, split between the Texans and Vikings. He added another three touchdowns through the air on 14 receptions, showing he still has a knack for finding the end zone.

Over his career, Akers has rushed for 2,025 yards and 13 touchdowns on 502 carries, along with 388 receiving yards and four more scores on 52 catches. His best stretch came during the Rams’ 2021 playoff run, where he returned from a torn Achilles to help power Los Angeles to a Super Bowl title.

This offseason has been quiet for Akers, with little public interest from other teams until now. But the Saints may present the ideal landing spot. With a thin backfield behind Kamara, Akers could carve out a meaningful role — if he shows he can still produce.

The tryout doesn’t guarantee a contract, but it does give Akers a platform to reintroduce himself to the league. For a player whose career has taken unexpected turns, this week’s minicamp could be a pivotal chapter in his NFL journey.