When you think of a running back with a “downhill, fast, and physical” style, it’s no surprise that Alexander Mattison brings a certain mentality to the gridiron. The latest addition to the Miami Dolphins’ backfield knows what he’s about on the field. But there’s so much more to Mattison than his bruising runs.
Despite his aggressive playing style, Mattison admits, “I definitely am not an aggressive person. (I’m) not a person that rolls out of bed with that mindset.”
His softer side shines through off the field. With roots at Boise State, where he followed in the footsteps of former Dolphins standout Jay Ajayi, Mattison has been transparent about his personal battles with mental health during his college years.
Now, he’s turned those challenges into triumphs, founding the I Am Gifted initiative. This organization aims to “provide dream-chasing opportunities for youth and emphasize the importance of mental health, spreading love and positivity to all.”
On the Dolphins’ Drive Time podcast, Mattison shared, “I believe that everyone was born with a gift. You just have to find it, embrace it, and use it in spreading your light.
You can help be that light in somebody’s dark time.” His commitment to mental well-being resonates deeply, bringing a unique dynamic to his role on the team.
But don’t be fooled—Mattison’s compassion doesn’t mean he’s not a force on the football field. Standing at 5-11 and weighing in at 220 pounds, Mattison personifies the tough, powerful back the Dolphins need.
With Miami’s head coach Mike McDaniel emphasizing a need for physicality, Mattison is ready to deliver. “I’m going to bring a different level of physicality,” Mattison said.
His style promises to echo that of Ajayi, showcasing the potential for big hits and bruising runs.
The parallels between Mattison and Ajayi are intriguing. Both made their mark wearing number 22 at Boise State.
Ajayi brought his skills to the draft in 2015 with a 5-11, 221-pound frame, running a 4.57-second 40-yard dash. Mattison isn’t far off with similar stats—a hint that their running styles are no accident.
When discussing his resemblance to Ajayi, Mattison acknowledged, “Yeah, I would say so. I kind of lead with that (same) mindset.”
Yet there’s a vital difference: Mattison’s vigilance about physical care. Ajayi entered the pros with knee concerns, setting a limit on his career’s duration.
Mattison, by contrast, has placed a premium on understanding his body’s needs early on.
Reflecting on his collegiate farewell in 2018, where he posted 1,415 rushing yards, 17 touchdowns in 13 games, and earned the MVP title at the Mountain West Conference Championship, Mattison elected to jump to the NFL while his stock was high. “You can only play as long as your body lets you,” he wisely noted.
This focus on physical well-being was instilled in him early, reinforced by a high school coach’s adage: “The best ability is availability.” It’s a mantra that clearly shapes his professional ethos.
The Dolphins hope Mattison is the solution to some of their recent short-yardage issues. But beyond the field, they’ve undoubtedly found a player whose values align with a broader, positive approach to life.
Mattison’s presence is sure to empower both the locker room and the Miami community. Stay tuned for more developments in Miami as Mattison and the Dolphins aim to punch their way through defenses, one game at a time.
