The Vikings have reportedly released running back Alexander Mattison, signaling the end of his tenure as the team’s starter in 2023. Despite having an opportunity to claim the RB1 role after Dalvin Cook’s departure, Mattison’s performance fell short, leading to his release. This move opens up $3.35 million in cap space for the Vikings but incurs $1.25 million in dead money. With $2.75 million in guaranteed money set to vest in two weeks, the decision, though unexpected, aligns with the disappointing season Mattison had. Last offseason, he signed a two-year, $7 million contract to stay with the Vikings. During the 2023 season, Mattison struggled, recording multiple key fumbles, zero rushing touchdowns, and losing his starting position in mid-December.
He finished the year with 180 carries for 700 yards, becoming only the second player since 2003 with that many carries and no rushing touchdowns. Despite three receiving scores, he averaged less than four yards per carry for the third consecutive season and earned a 61.8 PFF grade, ranking 34th out of the 35 backs with at least 150 carries. Ty Chandler, who led the Vikings’ backfield towards the end of the season, is expected to assume the RB1 role in 2024. The return of RFA Cam Akers, who suffered an Achilles injury in November, remains uncertain. The Vikings are likely to add at least one running back to the roster, considering the current options are Kene Nwangwu, Myles Gaskin, and DeWayne McBride.
