Super early 22-man starter projections for the 2023 Vikings
By Adam Carlson
Starting Running Back
- Alexander Mattison
If the projected starters were based off the current roster, four-time Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook would be penciled in as the featured back and Alexander Mattison would once again be slated to be his primary backup.
However, trade talks have been heating up about Dalvin Cook, opening the door for Alexander Mattison to bring his bruising style of play to the forefront of Minnesota's run game and work toward getting less expensive at the position.
Mattison signed a two-year deal with the Vikings this offseason and could be the starter for 2023 and 2024 if he can prove to be an effective rusher this season. If he can, Mattison's two-year deal worth $7 million will look like a real bargain.
Averaging 4.1 yards per carry since arriving in Minnesota, Mattison is at his best when he can power through defenders. With only six games of starting experience, he will need to prove he can hold up to the wear and tear of an entire NFL season.