Saints sign former 2nd-round RB to compete behind Alvin Kamara

The New Orleans Saints are taking a chance on a formerly promising running back.

Cam Akers has been slowed by injury in his NFL career, but he's still got plenty of talent.

The Saints have invited Akers to participate in their minicamp on a tryout basis, according to beat writer Nick Underhill.

Akers is still just 25, and he split last season between the Texans and Vikings. He had 444 rushing yards between them.

He was once a second-round pick for the Rams in 2020.

In New Orleans, Alvin Kamara is established as the top dog at running back.

MORE: Bengals' contract mistakes risk turning Joe Burrow into Mike Trout

Behind Kamara, the Saints have Kendre Miller, Devin Neal and another veteran free agent, Clyde Edwards-Helaire.

The fact that it's just a minicamp tryout for Akers says one of two things. Either the Saints don't actually believe he's good enough at this point, or Akers is trying to leave his options open to show up at another team's minicamp.

Regardless, it's a low-risk opportunity for New Orleans to get eyes on a RB that used to be so highly thought of. If Akers still has any juice left, the Saints will see it up close.

MORE NFL NEWS:

• Breaking down the Baker Mayfield mistake
• Saquon Barkley reveals stunning retirement plans
• VP weighs in on Trey Hendrickson's contract
• Steelers wanted $84 million QB instead of Rodgers
• Nick Chubb had a sad Browns ending, but that shouldn't spoil his historic legacy
• Why Shedeur Sanders is 'perfect' QB for Browns offense