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Vikings Seek "Three-Down" RB in Draft After Mattison Departure

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, March 19th 2026 at 10:02 GMT by Sporting News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Minneapolis, MN - Thursday, March 19th, 2026 - The Minnesota Vikings are entering a critical offseason with a glaring hole at the running back position following the departure of Alexander Mattison. The team's front office, led by General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and Head Coach Kevin O'Connell, has consistently stressed the importance of acquiring a running back possessing "three-down ability" - a player capable of excelling as a runner, receiver, and blocker. As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Vikings are heavily scouting a class of prospects that could potentially fill this crucial role, and early indicators suggest they are prioritizing versatility.

Mattison's exit leaves a significant void in the Vikings' offense. While the team explored options in free agency, the draft represents a more cost-effective and potentially impactful avenue for addressing the position. O'Connell, known for his pass-first tendencies, has increasingly emphasized the need for a running back who can be a legitimate threat in the passing game, forcing defenses to account for all areas of the field. Offensive Coordinator Gregg Roman's scheme, traditionally known for power running, has evolved to incorporate more nuanced concepts, requiring backs who can excel in multiple facets of the offense.

Several prospects have emerged as potential targets for the Vikings, with Blake Corum (Michigan) and Jonathan Brooks (Texas) consistently topping draft boards. Both players offer a compelling blend of power, speed, and receiving ability. However, a significant concern surrounding both Corum and Brooks is their recent injury history. Both suffered torn ACLs during the 2023 season. While reports indicate they are progressing well in their rehabilitation, the Vikings' medical staff will undoubtedly conduct thorough evaluations to assess the long-term risks.

Blake Corum: The Power and Polish

Corum, widely regarded as the top running back in the draft, showcased a polished running style during his time at Michigan. His ability to identify running lanes and burst through contact is exceptional. He's not just a powerful runner; his soft hands and quick release make him a credible receiving threat out of the backfield. If fully recovered from his ACL tear, Corum has the potential to be a bell-cow back for the Vikings, handling a significant workload both on the ground and through the air.

Jonathan Brooks: Size, Speed, and Potential

Brooks presents a slightly different profile than Corum. At 6'0" and 225 pounds, he possesses a more imposing physical frame. He combines size with impressive speed and agility, making him difficult to bring down in the open field. Brooks demonstrated a natural ability to catch passes and consistently gain yards after the catch. Like Corum, his recovery from an ACL tear will be a key factor in his draft stock.

The Underdog: Bucky Allen

While Corum and Brooks are the frontrunners, the Vikings are also showing interest in players like Bucky Allen of Oregon. Allen, considered a bit of an underdog, brings a unique skill set to the table. He's an explosive runner with exceptional lateral quickness and a knack for finding daylight. Allen's willingness to block is particularly appealing, as it demonstrates a commitment to all aspects of the game. He may not possess the same raw power as Corum or Brooks, but his versatility and willingness to contribute on special teams could make him a valuable asset.

The Vikings' pre-draft process has been active, with both Corum and Brooks receiving Combine invites and requests for formal meetings. Beyond the Vikings, interest in these prospects is high. The Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, Las Vegas Raiders, and Los Angeles Chargers have also expressed interest, suggesting a potentially competitive bidding war for their services. This widespread interest could push their draft stock higher, potentially forcing the Vikings to trade up to secure their preferred target.

The Vikings' decision will likely hinge on a combination of medical evaluations, positional value, and the overall draft landscape. The team may also consider the depth of the free agent market closer to the draft, but the focus remains on finding a dynamic, three-down back who can elevate their offense and contribute to a sustained period of success.