Why Alexander Mattison’s Release From The Vikings Is Symbolic Of The Running Back Market

The Minnesota Vikings have several important decisions to make during the 2024 NFL off-season. Figuring out what to do with starting quarterback Kirk Cousins is one of those difficult roster decisions that need to be addressed.

The Vikings made a mildly surprising move last Thursday, when running back Alexander Mattison was released from the team was announced. The former Boise State standout spend five seasons with the team, rushing for 2,370 yards, 4.1 yards per carry and 11 touchdowns.

Mattison was given the reigns to the Vikings’ run game when Dalvin Cook left the team during last year’s off-season. However, he only recorded 700 yards in 13 games and failed to separate himself from his explosive teammate and second-year back, Ty Chandler, who would eventually take over the starting role for the final four games of the regular season. Minnesota finished 7-10 and failed to qualify for the playoffs.

The Vikings being skeptical that Mattison wouldn’t be able to produce in 2024 after a lackluster 2023 is understandable. However, his release reveals the very, very short leash running backs are on compared to other positions in the NFL. Many young quarterbacks are given several years to prove to their franchise that they are the solution under center. Talented wide receivers like Josh Gordon were given several opportunities to prove their talent can translate long-term on the field, despite on and off-field controversies. 

Mattison was given one season to start. He was disappointing according to most statistical metrics and was subsequently released without much fanfare and a second chance. Part of that comes with the short life-span of running backs – the average career of a player at that position is 2.57 years. The current NFL landscape on offense also caters to downfield threats, favoring wide receivers and tight ends when that unit is on the field. 

Running backs just aren’t given the same number of chances to start and thrive as other positions in the NFL. And with backs out of college being younger, faster, and more talented than ever before, players like Mattison are becoming more and more replaceable, and franchises are realizing that.