Is Alexander Mattison, Ty Chandler, Or DeWayne McBride The Vikings RB1 If Dalvin Cook Is Traded?

The Minnesota Vikings running back Dalvin Cook has been one of the top running backs in the NFL over the past few years. While he struggled with injuries over the first two years of his career, Cook has played in nearly 90% of the contests since his sophomore season.

However, his days in Minnesota could be limited. Many around NFL circles believe Cook and the Vikings are heading for a divorce. The star running back has averaged 4.7 yards per rushing attempt and 3.1 yards after contact per attempt in his career.

Meanwhile, the running backs behind Cook on the depth chart are Alexander Mattison, Ty Chandler, and DeWayne McBride.

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What Did The Vikings Running Backs Accomplish Last Year?

Mattison has been one of the top handcuffs in fantasy football for the past few years. He has rushed for over 430 yards in three of the past four seasons. Meanwhile, he had 74 rushing attempts for 283 yards and five touchdowns last year, a career-high.

More importantly, the Vikings re-signed the veteran running back this offseason to a two-year contract. The move wasn't a surprise, given the lack of depth at the running back position.

Minnesota spent a fifth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft on Chandler. However, the former North Carolina running back had a limited role as a rookie, totaling only six rushing attempts for 20 yards.

While he was a seventh-round pick, some are excited to see what McBride can do in his rookie year. He was a superstar at UAB, totaling 233 rushing attempts for 1,713 yards and 19 touchdowns, leading the conference in all three categories.

Who Will Be The Top Running Back For The Vikings In 2023?

The Vikings have had trade talks centered around Cook for the past few months. While the 2023 NFL Draft eliminated a few potential landing spots, Minnesota could still trade the veteran running back to the Miami Dolphins, Buffalo Bills, or an unknown third team.

If Cook gets traded, Mattison will take over as the lead running back for the Vikings. Chandler and McBride will battle for backup snaps behind the veteran running back. Fantasy players should consider Mattison a low-end RB2, while Chandler and McBride aren’t worth drafting in most redraft leagues.

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