Nobody would’ve blamed running back Cam Akers for hanging up the cleats for good.

After battling back from a ruptured Achilles’ tendon on his left side, Akers was slowly starting to carve out a niche for himself with the Vikings last season before suffering a ruptured Achilles’ tendon on his right side.

The fact that Akers is still playing at the highest level is nothing short of incredible. He was acquired by the Vikings via trade last week, and after returning kickoffs in the 31-29 loss to the Detroit Lions it seems like he’s on his way to getting some touches out of the backfield.

“I’ve come back from it twice now,” Akers said. “Hopefully that’s my last time.”

What does it say about Akers that he has twice worked his way back from arguably the worst injury in sports?

“He has it tattooed on his back,” veteran running back Aaron Jones said. “Resilient.”

Nothing was going to stop Akers from doing what he loves.

“It definitely wasn’t easy to have it happen again,” Akers said. “I had a lot of thoughts went through my head.”

Not once did he think about retirement. He’s simply not wired that way.

“If I were to get hurt again, I still wouldn’t be thinking about it like that,” Akers said. “I’d be working trying to get back.”

That’s what it boils down to for Akers. He has had many people ask him how he has managed to navigate the recovery process. His response is always the same.

“There’s not a secret recipe to coming back,” Akers said. “It’s a lot of work. That’s it. No days off.”

That mentality might be the biggest thing that has drawn head coach Kevin O’Connell to Akers since they initially crossed paths with the Los Angeles Rams. Not only has O’Connell admired the work ethic that Akers has consistently displayed, he has also been struck by his passion.

“The guy loves football,” O’Connell said. “It’s been awesome to have him back.”

Those sentiments have been echoed by everybody Akers has interacted with since he has returned to the Vikings.

“He comes in here happy every day,” Jones said. “He’s a joy to be around.”

That joy with which Akers carries himself is intentional. He’s never going to take anything for granted. Not after nearly having his passion taken away from him twice.

“I’m still playing ball,” Akers said. “I’m still chasing the goals that I have personally. And most of all, I’m still trying to help this team win.”

Cam Akers #22 of the Houston Texans reacts after a first down during the first quarter against the Buffalo Bills at NRG Stadium on Oct. 06, 2024 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)

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