Dolphins RB Alexander Mattison undergoes season-ending neck surgery after injury during preseason.
Why it matters: Mattison's injury significantly impacts the Dolphins' running back depth, especially as they prepare for the upcoming season.
With De'Von Achane and Jaylen Wright ahead of him on the depth chart, his absence will test Miami's rushing strategy and adjust their offensive schemes.
The Dolphins signed Mattison to a one-year contract this offseason, aiming to bolster their ground game.
What’s new: The injury occurred during a preseason game against the Chicago Bears while Mattison made an impressive 21-yard reception.
Following the play, he was transported by ambulance for immediate medical attention, culminating in season-ending neck surgery.
While he is expected to make a full recovery, the timeline for his return remains uncertain.
The big picture: This situation shines a spotlight on the Dolphins' current running back options as they navigate the loss of Mattison.
Achane and Wright, both relatively unproven in significant roles, will need to rise to the occasion.
Veteran Jamaal Williams is also trying out for the team, indicating a proactive approach to address the sudden gap in the roster.
By the numbers: In 2024, Mattison recorded 2,790 rushing yards and 15 rushing touchdowns over his career, showcasing his potential impact when healthy.
Last season with the Las Vegas Raiders, he appeared in 14 games and made seven starts, demonstrating reliability and experience.
His career statistics also include 136 receptions for 1,012 receiving yards, highlighting his dual-threat capability as both a runner and receiver.
Yes, but: Despite his track record, Mattison's injury raises questions about Miami's depth at running back.
The team will need to rely heavily on younger players who have yet to prove themselves in high-pressure situations.
Achane and Wright must adapt quickly to fill the void left by Mattison, which could influence the overall effectiveness of the Dolphins' offense.
What’s next: The Dolphins will continue to monitor Mattison's recovery while evaluating their options at running back.
As training camp approaches, decisions regarding roster adjustments and potential acquisitions will be pivotal in shaping the team's offensive strategy.
The focus will shift towards maximizing the strengths of the remaining backs while preparing for the upcoming season without Mattison.
The bottom line: Mattison's injury underscores the unpredictable nature of the NFL landscape, where depth and adaptability can determine a team's success.
As the Dolphins reassess their backfield, all eyes will be on how they execute their game plan with the available talent.
Dolphins RB Alexander Mattison undergoes season-ending neck surgery after injury during preseason.
Why it matters: Mattison's injury significantly impacts the Dolphins' running back depth, especially as they prepare for the upcoming season.
With De'Von Achane and Jaylen Wright ahead of him on the depth chart, his absence will test Miami's rushing strategy and adjust their offensive schemes.
The Dolphins signed Mattison to a one-year contract this offseason, aiming to bolster their ground game.
What’s new: The injury occurred during a preseason game against the Chicago Bears while Mattison made an impressive 21-yard reception.
Following the play, he was transported by ambulance for immediate medical attention, culminating in season-ending neck surgery.
While he is expected to make a full recovery, the timeline for his return remains uncertain.
The big picture: This situation shines a spotlight on the Dolphins' current running back options as they navigate the loss of Mattison.
Achane and Wright, both relatively unproven in significant roles, will need to rise to the occasion.
Veteran Jamaal Williams is also trying out for the team, indicating a proactive approach to address the sudden gap in the roster.
By the numbers: In 2024, Mattison recorded 2,790 rushing yards and 15 rushing touchdowns over his career, showcasing his potential impact when healthy.
Last season with the Las Vegas Raiders, he appeared in 14 games and made seven starts, demonstrating reliability and experience.
His career statistics also include 136 receptions for 1,012 receiving yards, highlighting his dual-threat capability as both a runner and receiver.
Yes, but: Despite his track record, Mattison's injury raises questions about Miami's depth at running back.
The team will need to rely heavily on younger players who have yet to prove themselves in high-pressure situations.
Achane and Wright must adapt quickly to fill the void left by Mattison, which could influence the overall effectiveness of the Dolphins' offense.
What’s next: The Dolphins will continue to monitor Mattison's recovery while evaluating their options at running back.
As training camp approaches, decisions regarding roster adjustments and potential acquisitions will be pivotal in shaping the team's offensive strategy.
The focus will shift towards maximizing the strengths of the remaining backs while preparing for the upcoming season without Mattison.
The bottom line: Mattison's injury underscores the unpredictable nature of the NFL landscape, where depth and adaptability can determine a team's success.
As the Dolphins reassess their backfield, all eyes will be on how they execute their game plan with the available talent.
