2019 NFL Draft Profile: Boise State RB Alexander Mattison
Pros and cons of the former Bronco back.
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What team would be a good fit?
While Alexander Mattison always had interest in the Broncos, but it wasn’t until Damarea Crockett decommitted just a few weeks before signing day, that there was even room for him in Boise State’s 2016 class.
Mattison was a solid 3 star back out of San Bernardino, and the first Division 1 football commit from San Bernardino High School since 2009. The Broncos were very lucky to get Mattison so late in the recruiting game.
Many Bronco fans were doubtful that Coach Harsin and Co would be able to replace workhorse running back Jeremy McNichols. Mattison showed glimpses of his ability during his true freshman year in 2016, but broke out in 2017 and 2018 for over 2,500 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns.
He also showed his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield when needed, with 60 receptions for 511 yards and a touchdown. In his senior campaign, Mattison was selected as First Team All-MWC and was the first Bronco to win the MWC Rushing Crown.
On paper Mattison seems like a sure-fire draft pick, but let’s dive a little deeper into his strengths and weaknesses.
Selected by: Minnesota Vikings, third round compensatory pick (#102 overall)
Measurables (via Mockdraftable)
Strengths
Similar to Brett Rypien, Alexander Mattison has an extremely high football and normal IQ. He is a man of few words that led the Broncos by example, especially in tough late-season games.
He has good NFL size at 5’11” and 221lbs and his frame is solidly muscular. Mattison has the ability to have a patient running style, while he is also able to simply attack a hole and get whatever yardage is available. He is also not afraid to get his hands dirty in pass blocking. Mattison runs with explosiveness and thus is able to make sharp cuts and even hurdle defenders.
Weaknesses
Mattison lacks the top end speed needed to separate from NFL defenders. He did improve his draft stock at his Pro Day when he improved his 40 yard dash time from 4.67 to 4.54. Some draft critics claim that while Mattison runs hard, he does not have the consistent force to run inside the tackles, similar to a Marshawn Lynch. While Mattison did not miss significant time, he did have both ankle and shoulder surgery during his time at Boise State.
Draft Prediction
Alexander Mattison has been predicted to be drafted as low as the 4th Round, and as high as an Undrafted Free Agent. Most feel as though he has shown enough both on and off the field, in addition to the NFL Combine and Pro Day to hear his name called on Day 3 of the NFL Draft. Most experts believe he will be a steady backup, others have Mattison as working his way into a starting role.
