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As we head into Week 18, most leagues have reached their championship. That said, there are several leagues that have late championships or daily fantasy leagues. That means injury news is still extremely important as we approach the conclusion of the regular season.
A good example of this is the Los Angeles Rams running back situation. Darrell Henderson Jr. is dealing with an injury and Cam Akers could be returning for the first time all season. Not to mention Sony Michel, who has played well as the starter.
Is Cam Akers playing this week? Is Darrell Henderson done for the year? Should I continue to start Sony Michel? Let's take a look at the injury situation for the Rams running back room.
Is Darrell Henderson Jr. Done For The Season?
Darrell Henderson Jr. has been dealing with injuries for the past few weeks, and after being place on IR his regular season is officially over. Henderson was given a 3-5 week diagnosis for his right MCL sprain which means he could return at some point in the playoffs. That, obviously, depends on how far the Rams go in the playoffs and how quickly Henderson heals.
Is Cam Akers Playing This Week Against The 49ers?
After an incredible recovery from a torn Achilles, Cam Akers is expected to make his return and play in Week 18 against the San Francisco 49ers. Sony Michel has performed very well as the Rams' starting running back when given the chance. That said, Cam Akers was the unquestioned starting running back before the preseason injury that robbed him of the majority of the 2021 season. Coach Sean McVay had this to say about Akers:
There are so many ways this quote could be taken. Is Cam Akers going to be unleashed? Will it be a 50-50 split between Akers and Michel? Is this just coach talk and Akers will only see a few touches?
Should I Start Sony Michel or Cam Akers This Week?
Here's what we know. Darrell Henderson will miss this week, which leaves Cam Akers and Sony Michel as the remaining running backs. Furthermore, we know that Akers will be active for the first time after a right Achilles tear that occurred only five months ago.
It would be stunning if Akers arrives in Week 18 and gets the majority of the work. He is only five months into a one-year injury recovery timeline. It is possible he is healing quickly but it is extremely unlikely the Rams will ride Akers in a Week 18 game against the 49ers. The Rams need to win the game to win the NFC West but considering Michel's success, there is no reason to risk re-injury with Akers. Michel should see the majority of the touches with Akers being a change of pace back at best.
Assuming Michel is the bellcow, the 49ers represent a very tough matchup as their run defense ranks second in DVOA. The 49ers represent one of the most talented defensive lines in the NFL which should mitigate Michel's floor as a fantasy play. Michel should be the starter in Week 18 and he is a solid RB2 heading into a very tough matchup against the 49ers.
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