Breaking: 3 Current Roster Options for Minnesota Vikings to Bolster Running Back Corps Amid the Uncertain Return of Restricted Free Agent…
The Minnesota Vikings have decided to part ways with running back Alexander Mattison, a move that has created over $3 million in available cap space. Mattison, who had aspirations of becoming the team’s primary running back in 2023, was released due to his inability to secure the starting position. This unexpected decision has granted Mattison free agency for the second consecutive year.
By releasing Mattison, the Vikings have successfully freed up $3.35 million in cap space, albeit at the cost of absorbing $1.25 million in dead money. With $2.75 million in guarantees set to vest in two weeks, this move was made before that deadline. Last offseason, Mattison inked a two-year, $7 million contract after the expiration of his initial four-year rookie deal with the Vikings. His opportunity to step into the RB1 role presented itself when Dalvin Cook was released, but Mattison failed to capitalize on this chance.
His 2023 season was marked by disappointment, featuring crucial fumbles, a lack of rushing touchdowns, and the loss of his starting position in mid-December. Mattison’s final stats for the year included 180 carries for 700 yards, making him only the second player since 2003 with as many carries and no rushing touchdowns, although he did manage three receiving scores. With an average of fewer than four yards per carry for the third consecutive season and a PFF grade of 61.8, ranking 34th out of 35 backs with at least 150 carries, Mattison’s performance fell short of expectations.
The void left by Mattison’s departure is anticipated to be filled by Ty Chandler, who took charge of the Vikings’ backfield in the latter part of the previous season. The uncertain return of restricted free agent Cam Akers, who suffered an Achilles injury in November, adds another layer of intrigue to the running back situation. The Vikings are expected to bolster their running back corps, with current roster options including Kene Nwangwu, Myles Gaskin, and DeWayne McBride.
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