The Minnesota Vikings made the decision to release running back Alexander Mattison after five seasons with the team, marking the end of his tenure with the organization. This move came after a disappointing year for Mattison, where he struggled to secure the starting position following the departure of longtime lead back Dalvin Cook. Despite being elevated to the starting role, Mattison failed to live up to expectations and was eventually replaced by Ty Chandler for the final four games of the regular season.
By releasing Mattison, the Vikings will save $3.35 million against their 2024 salary cap. If Mattison had remained on the roster past March 15, he would have been owed $2.75 million guaranteed for the 2024 season. This financial decision by the team reflects their desire to move on from Mattison and explore other options at the running back position.
During his time with the Vikings, Mattison started 13 games but only managed to accumulate 700 rushing yards. None of his 180 carries resulted in runs longer than 21 yards, and while he was able to score three receiving touchdowns, he failed to find the end zone on the ground. The team had high hopes for Mattison when they released Cook and signed him to a lucrative two-year contract in 2023, but he ultimately fell short of expectations.
Looking ahead, the Vikings are likely to seek additional depth at the running back position through free agency or the draft. Coach Kevin O’Connell has expressed confidence in Ty Chandler, who replaced Mattison in the starting lineup towards the end of the season. O’Connell acknowledged Mattison’s contributions to the team, stating that he ran hard and physical, but emphasized the need to continue to infuse talent and different skill sets into the running back room.
In his five seasons with the Vikings, Mattison averaged 4.1 yards per carry and rushed for a total of 2,370 yards on 584 attempts, scoring 11 touchdowns. He also caught 100 passes for 718 yards and six additional scores. Despite his departure from the team, Mattison leaves behind a statistical record that showcases his capabilities as a versatile running back.
The Minnesota Vikings’ decision to release Alexander Mattison signals a shift in their running back strategy and a desire to explore new options at the position. While Mattison’s time with the team had its highs and lows, the organization has chosen to part ways with him in order to pursue a different direction moving forward. The legacy of Mattison’s contributions to the Vikings will be remembered, but the team is focused on the future and building a stronger, more competitive roster.
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