The Vikings re-signed Alexander Mattison last offseason, hoping he would improve the team’s struggling running game after releasing Dalvin Cook. However, Mattison’s performance was also disappointing, raising questions about the team’s plans for the running back position in 2024.

Why It MattersThe Vikings’ running game has been a significant struggle, with Mattison’s underwhelming performance and the team’s overall poor rushing statistics pointing to the need for a strategic reevaluation of the running back situation.

By the Numbers

• Mattison averaged 3.9 yards per carry and finished 30th in PFF rushing grade out of the 35 running backs with at least 150 carries in the 2023 season.
• The Vikings had seven total rushing touchdowns in 2023, tied for the fewest in the league, with only four coming from running backs.

State of Play

• Mattison is unlikely to be cut but may not be RB1 next season.
• Chandler, finishing the season as the lead back, showcased potential, but needs improvement in pass protection.
• The team has other running backs on the roster, and it’s expected that new additions will join training camp competition with Mattison and Chandler.

What’s NextThe general manager could consider adding another back via free agency or the draft, with the likelihood of a cheap veteran or late-round pick being added to the roster.

Bottom LineThe lackluster performance of Alexander Mattison and the Vikings’ overall struggles in the running game have prompted the need for a strategic reevaluation and potential changes in the team’s running back lineup for the 2024 season.

In the sixth installment of the Vikings Offseason Evaluation series, the focus is on the running back position group. The article highlights the evolving dynamics of the Vikings’ running back room, the performance disparities between Alexander Mattison and Ty Chandler, and the impact of Cam Akers’ acquisition. The thorough analysis delves into metrics beyond the conventional yards per carry, shedding light on running backs’ actual impact and value to the team.

By the Numbers

• Mattison had a 13.9% rate of carries going for negative yardage, while Chandler had a significantly lower rate of 5.9%.
• Alexander Mattison had a total rushing Expected Points Added (EPA) for the season of -25.01, whereas Ty Chandler had a rushing EPA of +6.47.
• Cam Akers had the highest yards per route run as a receiver among the three, while Mattison’s performance underperformed in both receiving and pass blocking.

State of Play

• Chandler’s impressive performance late in the season positions him as a strong candidate for the lead running back role in the upcoming season.
• The article raises questions about Alexander Mattison’s future with the team, considering his underwhelming performance and hefty contract guarantee.

What’s NextThe Vikings may need at least one more running back, potentially considering a mid- to late-round pick in the draft or exploring the free agent market for depth behind Chandler. The article also contemplates the salary cap implications and the tenuous nature of the running back room heading into the next season.

Bottom LineThe thorough evaluation underscores the potential shift in the Vikings’ lead running back position towards Ty Chandler, while also highlighting the uncertainties surrounding Alexander Mattison’s future and the team’s running back depth.

GET MORE NEWS HERE