They used to say it was the year after surgery before a player was back

I wondered if some of the mid-season conflict with Akers was frustration from being a competitor. The NFL seems to matter more to Akers than it seemed to for Henderson. Akers was drafted to replace Gurley. I would imagine he saw himself as being at that same level. The Achillis tear is a significant injury for a professional athlete. Akers pushed himself to come back so quickly. Then the offensive line injuries mounted, and the run game production did not meet the level of expectations. The offense was ugly and after all that rehab it would be a lot to contend with.

Now maybe Akers pushed through the entire recovery process, and he is bringing the run game numbers up. Akers looks like he is finally all the way back. Akers will be in his last year of his contract. I think the Rams will draft another running back, but I'd love to see Akers have a big year next year.