Texans send running back to Vikings

Running back Cam Akers is returning to Minnesota.

The Houston Texans have agreed to trade Akers to the Vikings, the Vikings announced Tuesday night. Minnesota will also get a conditional 2026 seventh-round pick in the deal. The Texans will receive a conditional 2026 sixth-round pick in exchange for the running back.

It’s the second time in as many seasons the Vikings have completed a trade for Akers.

Minnesota acquired Akers in a deal with the Los Angeles Rams last year. He appeared in six total games with the Vikings in 2023, rushing for 138 yards on 38 carries.

The Texans signed Akers this past offseason.

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The Florida State product was originally a 2020 second-round pick by the Rams. He played in 30 games in Los Angeles (15 starts). He tore his Achilles prior to the 2021 season but miraculously returned to action in Week 18 that year and contributed to the Rams’ Super Bowl 56 run.

How does Cam Akers fit with Viking?

Akers adds depth to a Minnesota backfield that features Aaron Jones as the starting running back. Jones suffered a hip injury during the team’s Week 5 win, but the injury isn’t considered serious. Akers will probably serve as the No. 2 running back.

Akers knows Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell’s system, which should make for a seamless transition.

The 25-year-old running back has 1,728 rushing yards, 12 rushing TDs, 42 receptions, 336 receiving yards and two touchdown catches in 41 career games.

The 5-0 Vikings are off to their best start since 2016.

Follow USA TODAY Sports’ Tyler Dragon on X @TheTylerDragon.