Fantasy Football: Top 6 rookie running backs for 2020 season
By Drew DeLuca
5. Cam Akers, Florida State
Akers thrived at Florida State in a subpar offense, averaging 5.0 yards per carry behind a terrible offensive line. He is a powerful runner who does a lot of things well, and his elite upside as an every-down back in the NFL makes him a top-three target for several fantasy football experts.
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Height: 5-11
Weight: 212 pounds
Projected 40 time (per WalterFootball.com): 4.51 seconds
The Clinton, MS native racked up 1,144 yards rushing on 231 carries in 2019, and crossed the stripe 18 times, playing the role of receiver for four of those touchdowns. He caught 30 of 36 passes thrown his way, proof that his hands won’t be a concern at the next level.
However, a rather pedestrian 7.5 yards per catch points to his unimpressive vision, arguably his greatest skill development opportunity. While it’s fair to place some of the blame at the feet of the most disappointing group of blockers in FBS, the incremental quickness of pursuit tacklers in the NFL will present a major challenge to Akers.
Akers is a willing blocker who’s used to playing behind a poor offensive line, but he’ll need to refine his pass protection reads and technique at the next level. However, he also demonstrated occasional ball security concerns by losing three fumbles, two of them in close games.
While the ceiling is undoubtedly high, there are a few too many question marks here to warrant a top-three rating. Akers has shown he can do a lot of things well, but few at an exceptional level; he could give his fantasy football prospects a serious lift with a strong combine showing.
Preferred Draft Day Destinations: Atlanta Falcons, Seattle Seahawks, Arizona Cardinals