Who Should I Start? Cordarrelle Patterson or Cam Akers

Thursday, July 10, 10:47 AM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Cordarrelle Patterson could be "on the outside looking in" in regards to the team's backfield mix, according to Mike DeFabo of The Athletic. The 34-year-old Patterson appeared in 13 games for Pittsburgh last season, serving as both a kick returner and a gadget piece on offense (215 yards from scrimmage on 44 total touches). The Steelers added rookie Kaleb Johnson in the draft and former Philadelphia Eagles' back Kenneth Gainwell in free agency, so there is increased competition in the running back room. Patterson does have a history with Pittsburgh play-caller Arthur Smith dating back to their time together in Atlanta, which might make it more likely that he's still in the Steelers' 2025 plans.

Friday, June 13, 6:27 PM

The New Orleans Saints have agreed to terms on a one-year deal with running back Cam Akers on Friday. Akers recently worked out with the Saints during a mandatory minicamp. It appears Akers has impressed the organization enough to earn himself a deal with the team. The former second-round pick has been fairly underwhelming since being drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 2020. Last season, Akers rushed for 444 yards with two touchdowns in 17 games between the Houston Texans and Minnesota Vikings. The expectation is that Akers will serve as a depth option behind workhorse Alvin Kamara in the backfield. Akers won't be on the fantasy radar with Kamara likely getting the bulk of the carries in New Orleans.