The Vikings released Dalvin Cook earlier this month in a cost-cutting move that freed up hundreds of carries. As for Minnesota’s succession plan, Alexander Mattison is stepping into the starting role after spending the first few years of his career as Cook’s backup.
Mattison signed an extension earlier in the offseason when Cook’s future with the team was still in question. Now the fifth year rusher is set to headline the young, inexperienced running back room. Kene Nwangwu, a 2021 fourth-round selection, has 22 career carries; Ty Chandler, a fifth-round pick in 2022, has six; and DeWayne McBride joined from the fray when he was selected in the seventh round in April.
The Vikings’ have 264 vacated carries — all from Cook — which is the fourth-most in the NFL, per 4for4. That total accounts for 74.7% of their running back carries from 2022, the third-highest percentage in the league. Though Cook’s departure is a blow to the offense, Minnesota’s rushing rate dropped precipitously under coach Kevin O’Connell. In 2020, the Vikings ran the ball on over 45% of their plays, the sixth-highest rate. That fell to 36% in 2022, the third-lowest. The focus of this offense is clearly the passing game, with All-Pro receiver Justin Jefferson at the forefront.
