49ers‘ Run Game Struggles Highlight Costly Trade of Alexander mattison
SANTA CLARA, CA – The San Francisco 49ers’ offensive inconsistencies are increasingly drawing attention to a personnel decision made during the offseason: trading running back Alexander Mattison to the Minnesota Vikings. Recent struggles establishing a consistent running game, coupled wiht the performance of mattison in his new role, are fueling debate about whether the 49ers considerably weakened their offense with the move.
The trade, finalized in March, sent Mattison to Minnesota in exchange for a 2024 sixth-round draft pick. While the 49ers retained Christian McCaffrey and Elijah Mitchell, the team’s recent offensive output suggests a diminished capacity to consistently control the clock and wear down opponents – a hallmark of their success in previous seasons.The situation is further elaborate by injuries along the offensive line, including to rookie Connor Colby, who struggled in his first start against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday.
The 49ers’ run game currently relies heavily on McCaffrey,who,while still productive,is no longer the explosive threat he once was. Concerns are mounting that neither McCaffrey nor Mitchell possess the same tackle-breaking ability that Mattison consistently demonstrated. The Vikings, meanwhile, have benefited from Mattison’s versatility and reliability, solidifying their own rushing attack.
“Part of the issue is the blocking,” noted analysis of the 49ers’ offensive line. The loss of Aaron Banks and subsequent injuries to his replacements have created instability, hindering the team’s ability to open running lanes. However, the diminished explosiveness of the remaining running backs is also a notable factor.
The trade has sparked retrospective analysis, with some observers suggesting Mattison’s extension would have been a valuable asset for the 49ers. The Vikings’ improved rushing attack, powered by Mattison, underscores the potential impact of the decision, raising questions about the long-term consequences for San Francisco’s offensive strategy.
