Alexander Mattison News

Mattison has played second fiddle to fellow running back Dalvin Cook for his entire four-year career, but the former has had a handful of chances to shine, starting six of his 59 appearances. Overall, Mattison has averaged just 4.1 yards per carry and scored 14 touchdowns, but he's also reeled in 70 of 84 targets for 526 yards, good for an 83.3 percent catch rate. There have been rumblings this offseason that the Vikings may be willing to part ways with Cook, so Mattison could benefit in 2023 if the structure of the backfield is altered in the coming months.

Mattison's season-best performance included a pair of one-yard touchdowns. With Minnesota opting to rest its starters during the second half, Mattison filled Dalvin Cook's lead tailback role. Once the Vikings take the field in the playoffs, however, Mattison should return to his usual backup job.

Mattison played 23 snaps on offense as he got more work once the game became a blowout. He could get significant time or even start Week 18 against the Bears if the Vikings decide to rest starters head of the playoffs.

Mattison earned just a 21 percent offensive snap share in the contest, while Dalvin Cook played 79 percent of snaps at running back. With Cook healthy and playing well, Mattison has been nothing more than a handcuff for fantasy purposes seeing minimal involvement on offense. This should remain true as the Vikings visit the Packers in Week 16.

Minnesota didn't find many touches for Mattison while a healthy and effective Dalvin Cook played a key role in the team's historic comeback from a 33-point deficit. Cook totaled 190 scrimmage yards and a touchdown on 21 touches. With the 49ers hot on Minnesota's heels for the No. 2 seed in the NFC, the Vikings many need to keep riding Cook through the remainder of the season, leaving Mattison stapled to the bench for the majority of snaps.

Mattison played just nine snaps on offense and was not targeted in the passing game as he had a minimal role with the Vikings falling behind early and needing to pass. Mattison continues to operate strictly as the backup to Dalvin Cook. Though Mattison is capable of making big plays, he has earned fewer than three carries in six consecutive games.