Among the multitude of positive COVID tests in the NFL on Monday was Minnesota Vikings running back Alexander Mattison. The loss of Dalvin Cook's backup could be a significant blow for Minnesota, but the team has already reacted to the news, signing a veteran running back to ease some of the workload off of Cook's shoulders.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, after placing Mattison on the COVID list, the Vikings have claimed veteran running back Wayne Gallman off of waivers.
The #Vikings placed RB Alexander Mattison on the COVID-19 reserve list and claimed RB Wayne Gallman.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 13, 2021
Mattison has served as a sturdy backup to Dalvin Cook this season, often stepping in with big performances should the Vikings' lead back not be able to suit up. In 2021, Mattison has recorded more than 20 snaps in three different games, each time logging no fewer than 90 rushing yards.
With his services no longer available, at least until he's able to return from the COVID list, the Vikings brought in Gallman, who is coming off a solid season with the New York Giants and had been with the Atlanta Falcons up until last week when the team waived him.
This season with the Falcons, Gallman had recorded just 28 carries for 104 yards. In 2020, Gallman started 10 games for the Giants following an injury to Saquon Barkley. He recorded 147 carries for 682 yards and six touchdowns, providing valuable production for the G-Men in the wake of their ailing star.
Gallman will once again get the chance to prove he deserves a job in the league, and with Cook only recently returning from a dislocated shoulder, Gallman's presence in the running backs room could prove invaluable.
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