Sees eight touches in 2021 debut

Akers (Achilles) rushed five times for three yards and caught all three targets for 10 yards in Sunday's 27-24 overtime loss to the 49ers.

Akers made his 2021 debut in Week 18 after missing practically the entirety of the regular season with an Achilles injury. The 21-year-old was eased back into action with just eight total touches while Sony Michel (21-43-0) retained his lead back role. Akers is more versatile of an asset and provides more upside than the current veteran starter, so it wouldn't be surprising to see Akers carve out a larger role -- assuming good health -- in what is sure to be a showdown between the Rams and Cardinals in the first round of the playoffs.