Former FSU star completes miracle comeback with Super Bowl victory

Cam Akers Rams Super Bowl — Courtesy: Ashley Landis / Associated Press

Some stories in sports are simply surreal. Former Florida State star and current Los Angeles Rams running back, Cam Akers, is the perfect example of this. The second-year pro was set to break out in 2022 as one of the youngest rising talents in the NFL. Unfortunately, it was announced that Akers tore his Achilles in July and his availability for the season became shaky. In regular circumstances, it takes about nine to twelve months to recover from an injury of that much significance. 

Akers began the rehabilitation process and progressed to on-field workouts in October. He did what many thought was impossible when the Rams activated the Mississippi native on December 23. Akers officially returned to the field on January 9th during the final week of the regular season. He contributed sparingly in a loss before taking on a bigger role in the postseason.

In Los Angeles’ Wild Card victory over Arizona, Akers made a lasting mark. He recorded 17 carries for 55 yards while catching a pass for 40 yards. It was apparent right out of the gate that Akers was fully confident in his ability to play at a high level. He made one of the highlight plays of the game when he ran over Cardinals’ safety, Budda Baker.

Following wins over Tampa Bay and San Francisco, Akers and the LA Rams were Super Bowl-bound. It was the first time that fellow former Florida State star, cornerback Jalen Ramsey, and Akers had made the big game in their careers.

With the upstart Cincinnati Bengals and quarterback Joe Burrow on the table, it was no easy feat for the Rams. Los Angeles followed closely behind 20-13 in the third quarter before its defense took over in a 23-20 victory. Akers didn’t have an enormous impact on the Bengals but he managed to convert two third downs. He finished the game with 13 carries for 21 yards and three catches for 14 yards.

It took only two years for Akers to put a ring on his finger after his injury. The Los Angeles Rams will have an opportunity to make another run next season. By this time, Akers will be fully recovered and able to make an even bigger impact.

In fourteen regular-season appearances, Cam Akers has recorded 150 carries for 628 yards and two touchdowns while catching 11 passes for 123 yards and another score. 

In the postseason, he has started in five of six appearances and recorded 113 carries for 393 yards. He also has two touchdowns under his belt, along with catching 11 passes for 127 yards.

With Cam Akers and Jalen Ramsey coming out victorious, the Super Bowl champ has had a Florida State alum on its roster in each of the last six seasons.

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