Final Vikings 53-man roster projection for the 2021 season
By Adam Carlson
Running backs (4)
- Ameer Abdullah
- Dalvin Cook
- C.J. Ham
- Alexander Mattison
- Kene Nwangwu (PUP)
Fans haven’t had the opportunity to see Dalvin Cook in action this preseason but there is no doubt that he is ready to play when Week 1 rolls around. He will continue to be a threat running with the football or as a receiver out of the backfield.
Alexander Mattison will be the battering ram to give Cook some rest. Although he lacks the explosive change of direction and the top speed that Dalvin offers, he is a consistent back who can power forward for yardage and keep his feet moving even when being draped on by defenders.
Fullback C.J. Ham is a fan favorite and a solid lead blocker for the running backs. Recently, he has become a sneaky option as a receiver out of the backfield as well. It will be interesting to see if the team looks for more ways to get the ball in his hands his season.
Sadly, a knee issue has kept Kene Nwangwu out of action since his preseason debut but Ameer Abdullah will fill in nicely on special teams and as the team’s third halfback until he can return. There is no rush to bring the rookie running back early with the depth at the position.