The Minnesota Vikings went out and traded for Cam Akers ahead of their week 7 matchup against the Detroit Lions. Kevin O’Connell needed running back depth after Aaron Jones missed time against the New York Jets, due to a hip/hamstring injury.
Minnesota Vikings tried for another running back first
Head coach Kevin O’Connell is thrilled to have Cam Akers back in the building. He has rapport with the running back, and the relationship goes beyond just their time in Minnesota, last season.
But that doesn’t mean Cam was the Vikings’ first choice, when shopping the trade block for depth running backs this week. According to KSTP’s Darren Wolfson (via Mackey & Judd on SKOR North) Kwesi and O’Connell preferred Chicago Bears running back, Khalil Herbert.
Trading within the division is never easy, and that may have been what held up this deal. But it’s not something this Minnesota Vikings regime is afraid of. Remember, TJ Hockenson came from Detroit. Herbert has played behind D’Andre Swift for the Bears all season. In six games, he has just eight attempts for 16 yards. I’m glad the Vikings didn’t overpay for him.
