The Minnesota Vikings running back has been with the team since 2012 and will reportedly test the free-agent market this offseason.
Only future Hall of Fame running back Adrian Peterson has had more rushing touchdowns (33) for the Minnesota Vikings since 2012 than fellow running back Matt Asiata, who has found the end zone 18 times in the last five seasons.
Well the next touchdown Mr. Asiata scores may be done in the uniform of a different NFL team.
According to the Pioneer Press’ Chris Tomasson, the free-agent running back is not expected to return to Minnesota for the 2017 season.
Source says RB Matt Asiata plans to test the market in free agency and not a high probability he returns to the #Vikings.
— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) March 3, 2017
During his time with the Vikings, Asiata has been a serviceable back for the team’s offense. Since 2014 he has totaled 1,791 yards from scrimmage and 16 touchdowns on 409 touches.
He has never been known as a rusher who makes the big home run plays with the ball in his hands. But if Minnesota ever needed to gain a yard or two, Asiata was the guy the team usually called on if Peterson was not available.
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Replacing his production on the roster should not be a problem for the Vikings if Asiata does indeed end up landing with another team this offseason. Even if he re-signed in Minnesota, his role would have likely remained as the third option on the team’s depth chart anyways.