Saints release Cam Akers ahead of roster deadline
The New Orleans Saints have released veteran running back Cam Akers ahead of Tuesday’s roster deadline, a move that aligns with the team’s preseason evaluations and depth chart decisions. Akers himself hinted on social media that the league remains a wild place, a sentiment that proved prescient as the transaction became public shortly after NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported the release.
New Orleans reportedly informed Akers of the decision before news of it leaked, a sign of a controlled and orderly process around roster changes. Akers appeared in three preseason games, rushing eight times for 16 yards.
With Alvin Kamara is the clear top back, the Saints’ backfield now features Kendre Miller as Kamara’s primary backup and sixth-round rookie Devin Neal as additional depth who is likely to receive some opportunities in his inaugural season.
Akers’ release comes after a difficult second act following his Achilles tear. He returned in 2024 to post 444 rushing yards and two touchdowns across stints with the Houston Texans and Minnesota Vikings, and he earned two fifth-place votes for Comeback Player of the Year.
What this means for the Saints is a trimming of backfield depth as they finalize their roster, while Akers faces the next step in his career. For Akers, the move could open doors with other teams seeking experienced depth at running back, especially those evaluating players who have shown the ability to rebound from major injuries.
Summary
The Saints released Cam Akers ahead of the roster deadline, following a preseason where he contributed as a rotational back. Kamara remains the focal point, with Miller and Neal in reserve roles. Akers’ future on another NFL team remains uncertain as the league moves toward final cuts.