Running back Alexander Mattison has faced numerous challenges in his NFL career, especially when it comes to securing a starting role. Despite being the backup to Dalvin Cook for four seasons, Mattison struggled to maintain consistency and failed to make a significant impact as a starter. His release from the Vikings after failing to hold down the starting running back job is a testament to his inability to excel in that position. With only 700 yards on the ground and no rushing touchdowns in his last season, it is evident that Mattison has yet to prove himself as a reliable starting running back in the league.
Failed Expectations and Limited Explosiveness
The Vikings elevated Mattison to the starting role after releasing Cook, hoping that he could provide strong inside running abilities despite not matching Cook’s explosiveness. However, Mattison fell short of expectations, averaging only 4.1 yards per carry and failing to break a single run for more than 21 yards in his five seasons with the team. His lack of explosiveness and inability to create big plays have hindered his ability to establish himself as a dynamic and threatening running back in the league.
Throughout his career, Mattison has struggled to maintain consistent and productive performances on the field. Despite starting 13 games in his last season with the Vikings, he failed to make a significant impact with only 700 rushing yards and three touchdown passes. His inability to deliver consistent and high-level performances has raised concerns about his value and potential as a starting running back in the NFL.
With his recent signing with the Las Vegas Raiders, Mattison faces a new opportunity to revitalize his career and prove his worth in a new environment. However, questions remain about his ability to thrive as a complementary back and make a meaningful impact in a different system. As he joins Zamir White in the backfield and looks to fill the void left by Josh Jacobs, Mattison must demonstrate his versatility, explosiveness, and reliability to secure a prominent role with his new team.
Alexander Mattison’s career has been characterized by struggles with consistency, limited explosiveness, and failed expectations as a starting running back. As he embarks on a new chapter with the Las Vegas Raiders, he must overcome these challenges and showcase his potential to succeed in a new environment. Only time will tell whether Mattison can rise to the occasion and establish himself as a valuable asset in his new team’s backfield.
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