The Minnesota Vikings Have some tough decisions to make regarding the running back position this offseason. The Departure of Alexander Mattison didn’t come as a shock to most Vikings fans as his overall production declined as the starter after he carried most of the load in the 2023-2024 season, but with the acquisition of Cam Akers and Ty Chandler stepping up, the question now becomes who’s going to step into the role of RB1 for the upcoming 2024-2025 season?
Does Ty Chandler Take the reigns after a decent 2023-2024 season For the Minnesota Vikings
Ty Chandler was RB2 in the 2023 season before making his way to RB1 for a short period of time while Alexander Mattison was hurt. Throughout the 2023 season, Chandler carried the ball 102 times for 461 yards and 3 touchdowns. Chandler Brings excellent speed and agility, allowing him to break away from defenders and make big plays.
He’s also a very versatile back who can contribute to both the passing and running game. He’s a capable receiver out of the backfield and can also be used in special teams roles. Chandler also exhibits good vision and awareness, allowing him to find running lanes and make quick decisions on the field.
The bad things about Chandler though is that he lacks consistency. While Chandler has shown some flashes of brilliance, he has also been inconsistent at times, struggling to maintain high levels of performance from game to game. He also has had ball security issues in the past dating back to college which has effected him and is a concern at the NFL Level.
Also in Chandlers college career, he’s dealt with a lot of injuries which could raise some concerns about his long-term durability in the NFL.
Or Maybe Cam Akers Redeems Himself with Minnesota Vikings after falling out with Rams
Another candidate for Rb1 is Cam Akers. Akers has struggled with a plethora of injuries throughout his career which is partly the reason for his departure from the Rams. Plus his numbers coming to the Minnesota Vikings haven’t been the greatest with 60 carries for 167 yards and 2 touchdowns in the 2023 season. Some scouts have even noted that Akers seems to have a somewhat unorthodox running style which may lead to challenges in certain offensive schemes or systems.
The Only upside with Cam is his Athleticism and Speed, his Versatility, his Agility and Elusiveness on the field, and his Vision and decision making is some of the most elite in the game. Akers has huge upside potential showing steady improvement and development since coming into the league and coming to Minnesota. Which indicates that he has the potential to become a premier running back in the NFL.
Exploring Other Potential Options for the RB1 Position for Minnesota Vikings
Another Potential Option for the Vikings is to draft some young talent at the RB position and start fresh since they’re trying to clear up space to make a record breaking signing to all pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson, so trying to sign a big name like Shaquan Barkley is out of the picture for the Minnesota. I Think Jonathon Brooks from Texas University would be an amazing pickup for the Vikings.
In this Pro Football Focus (PFF) draft board, Jonathon Brooks projected to go with the 64th pick in the NFL draft Brooks is over 6 feet tall and over 200 pounds. Brooks shows impressive agility, body control and long speed for a player build like he is. He’s without a doubt been one of the most productive backs in the country selected to be the first back selected if he declares for the NFL draft.
Overall, the Vikings should just probably stick to the backs they have now, and maybe look into drafting a good RB2 behind Chandler because Ty can be a good RB1 as he continues to improve. They need to focus on a consistent run game with Chandler and whoever they decide for RB2 and focus on getting that offense back to looking like prime Minnesota with Randall Cunningham, Randy Moss, and Robert Smith setting offensive records.
4 Comments
I think we’re in a good spot!
Nice read!! Need more of this.
Amazing!
This was an awesome article. Hope to hear more!