KC Chiefs: Five trade deadline targets for the offense
By Scott Loring
Alexander Mattison, RB
The Minnesota Vikings have a great thing going in their backfield, especially when starter Dalvin Cook is healthy. Reserve running back Alexander Mattison is regarded as one of the top backups in all the NFL. The former Boise State Bronco was a 3rd round pick in 2019, and if you play fantasy football, you know the impact that would come with Mattison’s stock if he ever got a full-time starting job for any team.
At 5’11” and 220 lbs, Mattison has the frame to take on the pounding of a starting assignment. He’s been surprisingly active in the passing game, with 15 receptions for 120 yards in 2021. In his two starts this season, he’s broken the 100-yard mark and the team has won both games.
Like Dillard, the 23-year-old Mattison is under team control for the next 1.5 years, which makes him a more palatable option in the backfield. He’s a Priest Holmes-type of player; not blessed with elite speed, but he is a smart, well-rounded back who has plus vision and can get out on the edge. He also does well in pass protection. If the Chiefs are committed to using an outside zone scheme, Mattison is a good fit.
Projected Compensation
With a year and a half left on his contract, Mattison will probably come at the value of a third-round pick in 2022 or an equivalent combination of picks.