Watch CBS News

Minnesota Vikings release running back Alexander Mattison

Vikings 2024 offseason outlook: Biggest questions and storylines
Vikings 2024 offseason outlook: Biggest questions and storylines 01:17

MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Vikings are cutting ties with last season's starting running back. 

Last week, Adam Schefter of ESPN reported, per sources, that the Vikings informed RB Alexander Mattison that he is being released. On Monday, the team made it official. 

Mattison signed a new deal with the team last season and stepped in as starting RB after Dalvin Cook was released. He was originally picked by the Vikings in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft.

Mattison struggled during the regular season, with an average of 3.9 yards per carry and no rushing touchdowns. He also fumbled several times. 

NFL: SEP 14 Vikings at Eagles
Minnesota Vikings Running Back Alexander Mattison (2) fumbles the ball in the second half during the game between the Minnesota Vikings and Philadelphia Eagles on September 14, 2023 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, PA. Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Mattison is now a free agent.

"Mattison's release means he is eligible to sign with another team before free agency opens on March 13 or any time thereafter," the Vikings said in a statement

The Vikings' current RB options include Ty Chandler, Kene Nwangwu and DeWayne McBride. Chandler will be entering his third season and showed explosiveness when he got the chance. Nwangwu is more of a kick return specialist and McBride may still need some development. 

RELATED: What positions do the Minnesota Vikings need to address heading into 2024 season?

Minnesota could look to free agency or the NFL Draft to shore up the running back position. 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.