Alexander Mattison Joins Dolphins: Promises Physicality

The Miami Dolphins have made a strategic move to bolster their running game by signing veteran running back Alexander Mattison to a one-year contract on March 14, 2025. (miamidolphins.com) Mattison, 26, brings a wealth of experience from his six seasons in the NFL, including stints with the Minnesota Vikings and the Las Vegas Raiders. Over his career, he has accumulated 2,790 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns, along with 1,012 receiving yards and seven touchdown receptions. (miamidolphins.com)

Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel has emphasized the need for speed in his offensive strategy. However, recognizing the team’s struggles in short-yardage situations during the 2024 season, McDaniel has sought to add a physical element to the offense. Mattison’s acquisition is seen as a direct response to this need. In 2024, the Dolphins converted only 55% of their third-and-1 running plays, ranking them second-worst in the NFL. On fourth-and-1 runs, they were 0-for-3, placing them among the league’s bottom four teams in conversion rate. (si.com)

Mattison’s role is expected to focus on converting these critical short-yardage situations. He expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Dolphins, stating, "I was excited about coming over. It’s an exciting offense. It’s an exciting team to be a part of." He acknowledged the team’s need for a more physical running presence, adding, "He told me to bring my big boy pads down to South Beach. So I understand, you know, I’m going to bring a different level of physicality." (media.miamidolphins.com)

The Dolphins’ short-yardage inefficiencies were particularly evident in their 2024 season finale against the Green Bay Packers. In the fourth quarter, the Dolphins failed to gain a single yard on three consecutive plays from the Packers’ 1-yard line, underscoring the team’s ongoing struggles in these critical situations. (miamiherald.com)

Mattison’s addition is seen as a strategic move to address these shortcomings. His physical running style is expected to complement the Dolphins’ speed-oriented offense, providing a more balanced attack. By focusing on converting short-yardage opportunities, the Dolphins aim to enhance their offensive efficiency and competitiveness in the upcoming season.

As the Dolphins prepare for the 2025 season, the integration of Mattison into the offense will be closely monitored. His ability to improve the team’s performance in short-yardage situations could be a pivotal factor in the Dolphins’ pursuit of a more successful season.

What is Alexander Mattison’s career average yards per carry?