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The Los Angeles Rams will be getting some much-needed help at the running back position.
The Rams have acquired Sony Michel from the New England Patriots in exchange for two conditional draft picks -- one in the fifth round and another in the sixth -- as part of the agreement, the Rams announced in a news release shared on their official website Wednesday (August 25) morning.
The Rams had a major need at running back amid starter Cam Akers' season-ending right Achilles tendon tear experienced while working out before training camp.
Darrell Henderson Jr. has taken over in Akers' absence, but Los Angeles lacked depth behind the third-year running back.
Second-year back Xavier Jones, an undrafted free agent in 2020, and rookie seventh-round pick Jake Funk, have both competed for roster spots throughout the preseason.
Michel recorded 2,292 yards and 14 touchdowns in 38 career games, including 28 starts, during his three seasons with the Patriots.
The former University of Georgia standout was selected by New England at No. 31 overall in the 2018 NFL Draft and was a member of the Patriots' Super Bowl LIII championship team during his rookie season.
Michel recored 94 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries in the 13-3 win over the Rams in Super Bowl LIII.
The four-year veteran is due to earn a base salary of $1.79 million during the final year of his rookie contract in 2021 after New England opted not to exercise his fifth-year option in 2022.