One-Time Vikings Starter Done for Season After Scary Injury

While preseason football is necessary for new players to get extended game reps with NFL teams, it can often be a littered minefield. The Minnesota Vikings experienced that last season when rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy suffered a season-ending knee injury after one game against the Las Vegas Raiders.

This time around McCarthy debuted against the Houston Texans and emerged unscathed. It’s expected to be his lone preseason exposure this year. Unfortunately teammate Rondale Moore was not so lucky and was carted off with what appears to be a season-ending injury.

Elsewhere in the NFL there were injury situations to monitor as well. Among the scariest was former Vikings running back Alexander Mattison leaving in an ambulane.

Alexander Mattison season over after neck surgery

Alexander Mattison was a strong backup to Dalvin Cook for years. Minnesota then used him in a starting capacity for the 2023 season and the results were lackluster. After a year with Las Vegas in 2024, he was competing for touches with the Miami Dolphins this season. Now that opportunity is gone.

Dolphins running back Alexander Mattison underwent season-ending neck surgery Sunday in Chicago, per sources. Mattison hurt his neck during Sunday’s game vs. the Bears, was taken by ambulance to a local hospital and had surgery. pic.twitter.com/uYM95c6WXz

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 11, 2025

Neck injury ends the season for Alexander Mattison pic.twitter.com/E8Z31W7Eb5

— Fitzmagic (@jakefitz357) August 11, 2025

Mattison was tackled straight down onto his neck in a matchup against the Chicago Bears on Sunday. Prior to his injury he carried the rock three times for eight yards and a touchdown. The injury came on a 21 yard pass reception.

It’s unlikely that Mattison would have seen considerable time with starter De’Von Achane established, but he could have helped to supplement rookie Ollie Gordon II. Now, after the scary neck injury and immediate surgery, the focus will be getting back to full health regardless of football.

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The former Minnesota Vikings running back is just 27 years old and has a lot of life left to live. He was consistently available and healthy in Minnesota having played at least 13 games in each season. This injury is significant, and getting his body back to a place where he can feel comfortable is a must.

More for Mattison’s future if he wants it

Last season with the Raiders Mattison drew seven starts in 14 games and ran for 420 yards with four touchdowns. If he wants to resume his playing career after healing this season, then he should have suitors again next offseason.

While football remains the most popular sport in the country, this weekend’s exhibition matchups provided a stark reminder as to how violent the game can be. Detroit Lions defensive back was also taken off in an ambulance, and the game was suspended, after a head injury caused him to seize on the field.

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The Vikings will host the New England Patriots for joint practices this week prior to their second exhibition contest on Saturday. Once again, Kevin O’Connell will be seeking an opportunity for his roster to get and stay healthy.