Who Should I Start? Rashaad Penny or Cam Akers

Tuesday, July 30, 11:14 AM

The Carolina Panthers have placed running back Rashaad Penny on the reserve/retired list. Penny, who joined the Panthers this offseason, was set to reunite with head coach Dave Canales, the passing game coordinator during Penny's standout 2021 season with the Seattle Seahawks, and Brad Idzik, now the Panthers' offensive coordinator. Unfortunately, a series of injuries including multiple strains, a torn ACL, and a fibula fracture have hindered Penny's once-explosive performance. Despite rigorous rehab, he struggled to regain the speed that made him a dynamic force in college. Penny's 5.6 yards per carry would be the highest in NFL history if he had sustained it. He also recorded 2,248 rushing yards at San Diego State in 2017, ranking fifth for a single season in NCAA history. The former first-round pick had stints with the Seattle Seahawks and Philadelphia Eagles before signing with the Panthers in May. Penny retires with 1,931 career rushing yards, 13 touchdowns on 348 carries, and 28 receptions for 227 yards.

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.