Rams acquire Sony Michel from Patriots for pair of picks

The Los Angeles Rams acquired running back Sony Michel from the New England Patriots for conditional 2022 fifth- and sixth-round picks.

What It Means:

Michel provides the Rams with another option on early downs as they work through Cam Akers' season-ending Achilles injury, as well as Darrell Henderson's recent thumb sprain. The 2018 first-round pick also proved capable of pass-catching contributions last year when he averaged 12.7 yards per target. Henderson remains the favorite to lead the Rams' backfield in touches, but Michel should be involved, and his arrival likely make Xavier Jones and Jake Funk irrelevant for fantasy purposes. Damien Harris is the clear lead runner in New England and Rhamondre Stevenson is now the direct backup.

Michel ranked 12th in Rushing Net Expected Points per carry last season among the 76 running backs with at least 50 carries. Courtesy of Pro Football Focus, Michel also set career-highs in breakaway percentage, elusive rating, and yards per route run.