After reading the title of this post I was expecting I’d favor the Akers side. I really like Akers. Prior to last year’s draft I saw him as the 3rd best RB in that loaded 2020 class behind Taylor & Swift. I’m also not as sold as many are on Smith (not that he can’t be a great fantasy asset, but his physical profile makes his fantasy upside more landing spot / scheme dependent than guys like Chase or Bateman in my opinion). And I do see how the ages of many of the studs on your roster place you in a window where it would make sense to go hard after the couple RB upgrades that could push you over the top.
With all that said, I think this is too steep of a price. Given that Smith is already on your team, I’m guessing you have some type of rookie draft where you’re allowed to draft ahead (take players who have not declared for the upcoming NFL Draft / will play additional season(s) in college). So the specifics of that set-up might change how I assess the value of these picks. If, however, the 2023 pick is strictly for 2023 draft-eligible players, I would not give away that 1st rounder in this deal. The ’23 class appears more loaded with top-end talent than either ’21 or ’22.
Bottom Line: If you’re really willing to deal all of those assets, I’d at least make that known to your entire league to try and get more than just one RB out of it. Even if he is a young stud.
