In the leadup to the 2021 NFL Draft, Vikings.com is taking a position-by-position look at prospects who have garnered a range of attention from national outlets. The series will include rankings, stats and background information for multiple prospects. We’ll also include comments that experts shared during interviews.
Vikings status at running back
As far as consistency goes, the Vikings running backs corps is high on the list.
Dalvin Cook and Alexander Mattison were already set to return, and Ameer Abdullah re-signed with the team last month. Mike Boone, who had been with the Vikings since 2018, joined the Broncos in free agency.
Cook, a two-time Pro Bowler, is the clear-cut starter, and Mattison has proven in his first two seasons to be a valuable reserve. While Abdullah has primarily contributed on special teams during his time in Purple, the 27-year-old has maximized his offensive opportunities, scoring two receiving touchdowns on just 71 offensive snaps last season.
Fullback C.J. Ham also remains on Minnesota’s roster and has been an asset as a blocker, ball carrier and pass catcher. He is backed up by Jake Bargas, who appeared in one game as a rookie.