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.
Mackey: “Let’s dive into the speculative weeds here just a little bit, Doogs. Where do you want to take us?”
Wolfson: “Well, it’s not necessarily the speculative weeds. So, prior to the trade for Cam Akers, I’m lead to believe the Vikings preferred Khalil Herbert, of the Chicago Bears. Now maybe that’s diving into the speculative weeds, a little bit.
100% confirmed, not reckless speculation, the Vikings had dialogue with Chicago. Absolutely had interest in Herbert. So, it wasn’t Cam Akers or bust. Clearly the Bears wouldn’t do the parameters of the deal the Vikings worked out with Houston.”
Darren Wolfson on the Vikings trade interest in Khalil Herbert (SkorNorth)
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.
Herbert has shown to be a capable and efficient runner when given real touches. He does also carry an ability to compete in the passing game. Regardless, the Vikings landed Akers for minimal cost (a 6th vs 7th round pick swap)
As long as the veteran is healthy though, he will remain the lead option. Now that they’ve added another body to the running back room, the Minnesota Vikings will look to add another tally to the win column on Sunday vs the Detroit Lions. It is shaping up to be among the most highly-anticipated games in recent regular season history.
