Predictions for every Vikings training camp battle in 2019
By Adam Patrick
Backup Running Back
Participants: Alexander Mattison (R), Ameer Abdullah, Mike Boone, Roc Thomas
This will be one of the more intriguing battles during the Vikings’ training camp since the team has a variety of different options to choose from.
If Minnesota is looking to pair Dalvin Cook with a backup that is more of a bruiser or a north-south type of runner, then either Alexander Mattison or Mike Boone would be the guy to select. If the Vikings want a No. 2 back who has a similar skill set to Cook, then Ameer Abdullah or Roc Thomas would be the better options out of the four to choose from.
Minnesota used a third-round draft pick on Mattison this year, so one has to believe he has an edge for the role entering training camp. But Boone and Thomas both scrapped their way onto the team last season after going undrafted, so they already know what it takes to make the Vikings’ roster.
Abdullah is a bit of dark horse to win the role. He was a great college running back during his time at Nebraska. He just hasn’t been able to figure out how to maximize his abilities at the NFL level yet.
Prediction: Mattison wins the job