Reports: Vikings to release RB Alexander Mattison

Field Level Media|published: 02/29/2024, 9:01pm EST

Nov 27, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Joshua Dobbs (15) hands the ball off to running back Alexander Mattison (2) during the game against the Chicago Bears at U.S. Bank Stadium. credits: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

The Minnesota Vikings informed running back Alexander Mattison that they will release him, multiple reports said Thursday.

Mattison signed a two-year, $7 million contract with the Vikings last spring. He was due to carry a $4.6 million cap hit in 2024.

He was a third-round draft pick by the team in 2019, and after four seasons as a sidekick and occasional substitute for Dalvin Cook, Mattison was given the starting job in 2023 after Cook was released.

Mattison set career highs in attempts (180) and yards (700) but failed to record a rushing touchdown and lost the starting role to Ty Chandler in December. Mattison also had 30 receptions for 192 yards and three touchdowns.

In 75 games (19 starts) over five seasons with the Vikings, Mattison, 25, rushed 584 times for 2,370 yards and 11 touchdowns. He added 100 catches for 718 yards and six scores.

—Field Level Media