Minnesota Vikings running back Alexander Mattison has proven to be a capable backup to Dalvin Cook. Matt Blewett-USA TODAY Sports

Vikings RB Alexander Mattison looking for massive 2022 season

The Minnesota Vikings already have themselves a bona fide superstar at running back in Dalvin Cook. The former Florida State star has recorded over 1,300 scrimmage yards and 36 total touchdowns over the last three seasons. He is arguably the most important player on the  Vikings. However, Minnesota has another running back besides the three-time Pro Bowl selection who can be dangerous with the ball in his hand. His name is Alexander Mattison, and he is looking to build off of a career-high season in 2021.

Mattison, a three-year veteran, hasn't put up the most outstanding numbers in his young career (1,387 rushing yards in three seasons). But he is starting to gain momentum. He set a career highs in games started (4), rushing attempts (134), rushing touchdowns (6), receptions (32), total touches (166) and scrimmage yards (719). The former Boise state star is not the team's No. 1 running back on the depth chart. He will never be as long as Cook is still on the roster. He is just too good. However, Mattison is a bigger running back (5-foot-11, 215 lbs). He is the thunder to Cook's lightning. He is one of the best backup running backs in the league.

The Vikings have a top-five running back duo in the league, especially when Mattison produces. With Cook producing 1,300+ total yards a season and Mattison producing 700+ total yards, first-year head coach Kevin O'Connell has a very nice set of running backs. It is also important to remember that Cook has a little bit of an injury history (never played a full season in five career years). So, Mattison is almost a certainty to start multiple games again in 2022. If the California native can eclipse 500 rushing yards and 250 receiving yards, Minnesota will be in fantastic shape in terms of their depth at each of their skill positions.    

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