Cam Akers

Denver defends running backs well, and with Tracy likely coming back Akers probably won't get as many carries. I'd bench him unless you have no better option or want a risky play—check pregame reports and if he looks like the main runner you can reconsider.

Don't start Cam Akers — the Rams have a bye in Week 6 so he won't play. Pick up a short-term running back who gets a lot of work or catches passes and has an easier opponent that week, then swap Akers back in after the bye unless he gets hurt.

He had 27 carries for 90 yards last game and now faces a Saints run defense that gives up a lot of points to rushers, so play him if you need a big day. Just know the team could split the carries again, so watch injury news and how much he’s actually on the field.

He’s worth picking up in deeper leagues — he’s the new backup and could see real playing time fast if Mason gets hurt or the team leans on the run. Don’t start him in shallow leagues unless you’re out of options or Jones/Mason are ruled out, since his role is still uncertain after being on the practice squad; watch early-week reports for how many plays and goal-line chances he gets.