Texans' Akers: 'I still make plays when given an opportunity'

Houston Texans running back Cam Akers says he's thankful to still be competing on the NFL stage after suffering a pair of Achilles tears early in his career.

"I just give all the praise to the Lord," Akers said after Thursday's Hall of Fame Game, according to NFL.com's Kevin Patra. "Two Achilles (injuries) in. Most people wouldn't be on the field again. ... I'm just happy to be here. ... A touchdown, my first game back in general. I'm blessed."

Akers scored a 4-yard receiving touchdown in the Texans' 21-17 loss to the Chicago Bears in the preseason opener, which ended early due to inclement weather. The 25-year-old finished the contest with five carries for 13 yards and two receptions for 13 yards and the score.

"It makes me feel like I'm still me," Akers said. "Obviously, people are going to try to paint a narrative of who I am, the running back position, or how it goes. But I just wanted to come out and show people that I'm still me and that I still make plays when given an opportunity. I'll continue to do that."

The Florida State product appeared in seven games in 2023, making one appearance with the Los Angeles Rams and playing in six contests for the Minnesota Vikings. He finished the campaign with 237 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns on 71 touches.

Akers has flashed potential when healthy, with his best season coming in 2022 when he tallied 903 scrimmage yards and seven scores. He has 1,901 yards and 12 touchdowns in 36 career games.