Dolphins' RB Alexander Mattison Out for 2025 Season After Neck Surgery

The Miami Dolphins have announced that running back Alexander Mattison will miss the entire 2025 NFL season following a neck injury sustained during a preseason game against the Chicago Bears. 

(Megan Briggs/GettyImages)

The injury occurred when Mattison was tackled on a 21-yard pass play and required immediate hospitalization and surgery in Chicago. Mattison, who joined the Dolphins this offseason on a one-year deal, had been projected to serve as a power back complement to speedsters De'Von Achane and Jaylen Wright. Prior to the injury, he had rushed three times for eight yards and one touchdown during the preseason game against the Bears .

In light of Mattison's season-ending injury, the Dolphins are actively seeking to bolster their running back depth. The team has reportedly worked out veteran running back Jamaal Williams, who was released by the New Orleans Saints earlier this year. Williams had a standout 2022 season with the Detroit Lions, leading the NFL in rushing touchdowns, but his production declined in subsequent seasons .

Additionally, the Dolphins have signed running back Aaron Shampklin, a 2022 undrafted free agent from Harvard with prior experience on various teams including the Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts, Houston Gamblers (USFL), Los Angeles Chargers, and Pittsburgh Steelers. Shampklin has limited NFL experience, having appeared in three games with the Steelers and recording six carries for 17 yards .

With Mattison sidelined, the Dolphins' backfield now primarily features De'Von Achane, Jaylen Wright, and rookie Ollie Gordon II. The team will need to adjust its offensive strategy to compensate for the loss of Mattison's power running style, particularly in short-yardage and goal-line situations.

The Dolphins' coaching staff, led by head coach Mike McDaniel, will be closely evaluating the performance of their remaining running backs and any new additions to ensure the team's rushing attack remains effective throughout the 2025 season.