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Darrell Henderson Jr.and Cam Akers split reps evenly throughout training camp, and the Rams planned to use both Akers and Henderson regularly. Both missed time during training camp with "soft tissue" injuries before being cleared for Week 1 against the Buffalo Bills.
Akers was the favorite heading into the regular season to be the Rams' lead back with an ADP of 53.94 in fantasy drafts this summer. His role in the Rams' offense decreased dramatically in Week 1. The 23-year-old was out-touched by Henderson 18-3 in the regular season opener against the Buffalo Bills. Henderson rushed 13 times for 47 yards and caught all five targets for 26 yards, while Akers logged three carries for no gain and wasn't targeted in the passing game.
Henderson drew the start in Week 1 and played 82 percent of the offensive snaps. The 25-year-old right now is the leader of the Rams' backfield and should see the majority of touches until Akers can "maximize his opportunities." Who is the starting running back for the Rams? Here's what to expect from Akers and Henderson moving forward.
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Who is the Starting RB for the Rams: Cam Akers or Darrell Henderson?
Darrell Henderson Jr. clearly outplayed Cam Akers and received the majority of the workload in Week 1. He should continue to see the bulk of the carries until head coach Sean McVay sees some positive things from Akers.
Sean McVay on RB Cam Akers: "There were some instances where there were some positive things and some things that he can do better, but we want to see just an increased level of urgency and accountability snap in and snap out from him.”
— Sarah Barshop (@sarahbarshop) September 9, 2022
Henderson seems to always have a crucial role in the Rams' offense and rushed for 688 yards on 149 attempts and five touchdowns while catching 29 passes for 176 yards and three scores over 12 games while filling in for Akers, who missed all but one game of last season due to a torn Achilles. Akers saw more of a role in the postseason and Super Bowl last year, but after missing the preseason with a soft tissue injury, it could take some time for the Florida State product to get going. According to Rams head coach Sean McVay, Akers needs to maximize his opportunities when he checks into future games.
Sean McVay said RB Cam Akers has to maximize his opportunities when he gets into the game.
— Sarah Barshop (@sarahbarshop) September 9, 2022
The Rams are expected to lean on Henderson until Akers displays his potential. “I know what Cam is capable of. We've all seen how talented and what a special player this guy's capable of being. And I want to see him reach his highest potential," said McVay. "It's more of a reflection of the confidence that I know what he can be, and I'm confident that he'll be that guy that we've all seen at the right moments as this season continues to progress. And that's our job to help get it out of him."
Which Rams RB Should Fantasy Football Managers Start in Week 2?
Darrell Henderson Jr. and Cam Akers could share the workload in future games, but for fantasy managers who need to start a Rams running back in Week 2 against the Atlanta Falcons, the answer is Henderson.
He should see the bulk of the carries and continue to lead the Rams backfield until Akers can earn head coach Sean McVay's trust. LA usually leans on one running back, and Henderson is the primary back for now as long he stays healthy. The former third-round pick has dealt with multiple injuries and has yet to play a full season over his four-year career.
You want the Rams’ RB1 in fantasy football because they have always been FED as a bellcow
Right this very moment, it’s Darrell Henderson, it’s not a “co-starters” situation https://t.co/zCJWugB709
— Adam Koffler (@AdamKoffler) September 9, 2022
Darrell Henderson Jr. and Cam Akers Rest of Season Fantasy Outlook
For now, Henderson will be the primary option in the Rams' ground attack unless Akers can regain his pre-injury form. Fantasy managers should continue to roster both running backs and start Henderson unless his role in the offense suddenly decreases. He is a high-upside RB2 moving forward as long as he remains the starter.
As for Akers, he is a roster stash who will look to turn things around after a disappointing Week 1. Don't bail on Akers, but managers shouldn't buy low, either. It could potentially be a split backfield in upcoming weeks, but McVay has typically leaned on one running back, and right now, it's Henderson.
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