Who Should I Start? Alexander Mattison or Dylan Sampson

Tuesday, August 12, 9:32 AM

Miami Dolphins running back Alexander Mattison (neck) was officially placed on injured reserve on Monday. Mattison injured his neck during a preseason game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday and later went for surgery. It was announced on Monday that he would miss the remainder of the year, with the team placing him on IR just as a procedural move to clear roster space. Mattison's absence will open up reps for second-year running back Jaylen Wright and rookie Ollie Gordon II behind starter De'Von Achane.

Wednesday, February 11, 9:49 AM

Cleveland Browns running back Dylan Sampson spent most of his rookie season as the team's primary receiving back, but following a late-season injury to fellow rookie Quinshon Judkins, he was given the opportunity to serve as Cleveland's lead back for the final two games of 2025. Unfortunately, playing behind an offensive line that struggled throughout the year to open running lanes or keep a revolving door of quarterbacks off the ground, he finished those two games with only 59 yards on 21 carries. With Judkins' status uncertain for the beginning of 2026, Sampson will likely get first crack at primary duties yet again, but unless Cleveland is able to drastically overhaul their offensive line in year one under new head coach Todd Monken, the bulk of his value will still come through his passing work. Sampson will look to improve on his 33 receptions as a rookie, but given his current surroundings, he is not a player who needs to be aggressively pursued.