Vikings Running Backs

The Minnesota Vikings are a professional American football team based in Minneapolis,
Minnesota. The Vikings play in the National Football League (NFL) in the North Division.
Founded in 1960, the team started play the following year. Their history dates back to the late
1960s, when the franchise began as an expansion team. Now, they compete in the NFL’s NFC
North division. The Minnesota Vikings have a rich tradition and history in the NFL.

Robert Smit

In addition to the Smith brothers, the Vikings also have a great history of running backs. Robert
Smith is the franchise’s second-leading rusher, with 6,818 yards. He was drafted in the first
round of the 1993 NFL Draft. In eight seasons with the team, he ran for over 3,000 yards and
averaged 5.2 yards per carry. He retired from the NFL in 2002. Despite his high-profile status,
he was a reliable contributor to the team.

Rhett Ellison and C.J. Ham

Other Vikings running backs worth keeping an eye on include Rhett Ellison and C.J. Ham. These
two rookies were drafted out of college and spent their first season on the practice squad.
However, they made the roster during the 2012 season and had some success. In the 2nd half
of the season, they combined for 102 carries for 215 yards. As a result, the Vikings have a lot of
options at RB.

Several quality running backs

Despite the fact that they are both young, there are plenty of experienced players who can step
up and make a huge impact. The Vikings have several quality running backs and should use
them wisely. The best way to assess the performance of the team’s backfield is by looking at the
statistics. Regardless of the back’s role, he is a key contributor on special teams. So, it’s
important to evaluate the team’s current needs and potential.
Cook is also expected to miss at least two games. His dislocated shoulder and torn labrum left
him in a worse position than he was before. Those aren’t great numbers. The Vikings have to
have a RB that can be a good backup for an injured Harrison Smith. They’ll need to find
someone who can play well in the first half of the season. There are no obvious choices right
now, so it’s best to get a veteran to step in and make the most of every opportunity.

Alexander Mattison

Alexander Mattison was drafted in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. The former Boise State
star is expected to contribute next to Dalvin Cook, who is the Vikings’ top choice. With two
capable running backs, the Vikings should consider adding one or two more to the rotation. This
will give the team more options. The new coaching staff should have an eye for the talent of their
backfield.

Most productive season for Robert Smith

Robert Smith is the second all-time leading rusher in the Vikings franchise history with 6,818
yards. The Vikings selected him in the first round of the 1993 NFL Draft. He spent eight seasons
with the team, and his most productive season was 2000. In that year, he had a 5.2 yards-percarry average and was the team’s leading rusher. After his retirement from the NFL, he is the most valuable running back in the franchise’s history.

Rhett Ellison

Among the Vikings’ many running backs, Rhett Ellison is the most exciting. He played a full
season with the Vikings in 2012 and led the team in rushing during the season. Unlike Line, he
was not drafted as a rookie and was a practice squad player. He spent his first three seasons on
the practice squad and was a key cog in the team’s ground game.
Despite the Vikings’ banged-up running backs, there are still a few backups. In addition to Dalvin
Cook, the Vikings also have Wayne Gallman and Alexander Mattison. Although both rookies
have limited experience, Ellison could be the better option if Cook is injured. If not, he could be a
good fit for the Vikings. While he doesn’t seem to be the best option, he is still an important part of the team and should be a viable option