Eagles Rumors: An under-the-radar trade target not named Kareem Hunt

Browns RB Kareem Hunt has been the center of trade talks as of late, and while it would be nice to add Hunt to the Eagles’ offense, he isn’t the only RB to be had.
One potential option could be former Raiders RB Kenyan Drake, who was officially released on Wednesday. Although Drake had productive stints in Miami and Arizona, Philadelphia already has two backs with similar skillsets in Boston Scott and Kenneth Gainwell.
The Eagles would benefit from a north-south power runner that can wear down defenses, especially when you consider the injury history of Miles Sanders. There’s an expendable back in Minnesota who fits the bill.
Vikings RB Alexander Mattison has been a dependable backup to Dalvin Cook since entering the league and has filled in nicely as a starter when necessary. The former third-round pick has rushed for over 90 yards in four of his six starts and racked up 719 all-purpose yards last season on 166 touches.
The problem for Mattison isn’t his production on the field; it’s the emerging talent behind him.

DraftKings Sportsbook: Bet $5, Win $200 INSTANTLY
- Sign up for a new DraftKings account
- Make Your First Deposit
- Bet $5+ On Any NFL or College Football market
- Get $200 In Free Bets Instantly
Over the previous two drafts, the Vikings have invested draft assets into their backfield: Kene Nwangwu (4th-round, 2021) and Ty Chandler (fifth-round, 2022). The young tandem flashed their ability in the first week of preseason, combining for 12 carries and 91 yards.
With two young backs on the rise and Mattison entering a contract year, the Vikings could look to move him sooner than later.
“Long known as the handcuff option for Dalvin Cook to fantasy managers, Alexander Mattison may be losing grip on the No. 2 running back job with the Minnesota Vikings. He is a solid back, but his skill set might not be what the Vikings’ new coaching staff is looking for.
Among all the running backs on the roster, Mattison sticks out like a sore thumb. The majority of the Vikings’ rushers offer a variety of speed and athleticism, while Mattison utilizes his power and strength more than anything.” — via Bleacher Report
The Eagles have reportedly been shopping for a veteran running back ahead of Week 1, and Mattison’s 215-pound frame could help round out the offense. Additionally, the 4th-year back has been fairly reliable for Minnesota, only missing one game last year due to COVID-19 protocols.
Eagles fans view Kareem Hunt as the “Jay Ajayi” piece that could push Philly into championship contention, but Mattison is a quality consolation prize.
Alexander Mattison muscles in for the TD 💪
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 10, 2021
(via @Vikings)pic.twitter.com/STh0LQm4jO
Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker | USA TODAY Sports
Is this credible