Miami Dolphins sign former Boise State running back Alexander Mattison
The Miami Dolphins have bolstered their running back corps by signing former Boise State standout Alexander Mattison to a one-year contract. This strategic move aims to enhance the team’s short-yardage capabilities and provide a complementary power-running option alongside speedsters De’Von Achane and Jaylen Wright.
Alexander Mattison: A Profile
Born on June 19, 1998, in San Bernardino, California, Alexander Mattison stands 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighs 220 pounds. He began his collegiate career at Boise State University, where he made a significant impact as a running back. In his sophomore year (2017), Mattison rushed for 1,086 yards and 12 touchdowns on 212 carries, averaging 5.1 yards per carry. He also demonstrated versatility by catching 28 passes for 284 yards and a touchdown.
Mattison’s performance at Boise State led to his selection by the Minnesota Vikings in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft (102nd overall). Over his NFL career, he has accumulated 420 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 132 carries, averaging 3.2 yards per carry.
Transition to the Miami Dolphins
After a stint with the Minnesota Vikings, Mattison signed a one-year, $2 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2024. Following that season, he agreed to a one-year deal with the Miami Dolphins, aiming to carve out a role in their backfield.
In Miami, Mattison is expected to serve as a short-yardage back, addressing the Dolphins’ struggles in third-and-1 situations during the previous season. His physical running style is anticipated to complement the team’s existing running backs, providing a more versatile and dynamic rushing attack.
Dolphins’ Running Back Room
The Dolphins’ running back group is led by De’Von Achane and Jaylen Wright, both of whom bring speed and agility to the offense. Mattison’s addition introduces a contrasting power element, offering the coaching staff diverse options in offensive play-calling. This balance between speed and power is expected to enhance the team’s overall offensive efficiency.
Team Performance and Outlook
The Dolphins concluded the 2024 regular season with a 10-7 record, narrowly missing the playoffs. The running game was identified as an area needing improvement, particularly in short-yardage situations. The acquisition of Mattison is viewed as a strategic effort to address this need, aiming to convert critical short-yardage opportunities and sustain offensive drives.
Coaching Perspective
Head coach Mike McDaniel has expressed confidence in the team’s running back trio, highlighting the complementary skill sets of Achane, Wright, and Mattison. The coaching staff anticipates that Mattison’s physical running style will provide a valuable option in situations requiring a strong, downhill runner.
Fan and Analyst Reactions
Fans and analysts have responded positively to the signing, viewing it as a prudent move to strengthen the running game. The addition of Mattison is seen as a commitment to improving offensive balance and addressing specific shortcomings from the previous season.
Looking Ahead
As the Dolphins prepare for the 2025 season, the integration of Alexander Mattison into the running back rotation is anticipated to contribute to a more dynamic and effective offense. The team’s ability to utilize a diverse set of running back skills is expected to pose challenges for opposing defenses and enhance the Dolphins’ competitiveness in the AFC East.