Rams’ Matthew Stafford says it’s ‘next man up’ after L.A loses Cam Akers
Last week, the Los Angeles Rams suffered a significant blow after losing second-year running back Cam Akers to a torn Achilles tendon.
The injury effective sidelines him for the entire 2021 season, leaving the rest of the Rams’ offense to pick up the slack. Star quarterback Matthew Stafford spoke to the media on Sunday, voicing strong confidence the rest of the backfield will help fill the massive void.
Want $250 to bet on NFL futures?
“Really tough to see that happen to a young guy that’s a really promising, talented player,” Stafford told reporters via Pro Football Talk. “Unfortunately, that’s kind of the name of the game in the NFL. You hate to see it happen in the offseason when we’re playing a game or something, but it’s next man up. Those guys are going to battle it out and I’m sure we’ll do whatever we can to make the running game as good as we possibly can.”
The Rams are moving forward with the team’s leading rusher last season but possess another promising talent. Darrell Henderson has demonstrated flashes of promise through his first two NFL seasons.
Read: Leonard Fournette Still Undecided On Covid-19 Vaccine
The Memphis product is an elusive back behind his speed, allowing him to make big plays as a runner and receiver. The Rams will need plenty of that to help bring balance to the offense while taking pressure off Stafford’s shoulders.
Los Angeles possesses plenty of offensive talent in the passing game with Cooper Kupp, Robert Woods, DeSean Jackson, and Tyler Higbee. The loss of Akers is a notable blow, but the Rams still have the pieces to contend for more than a playoff berth.
