Running back Matt Asiata has made the most of his opportunities in his second camp with the Vikings.
In two preseason games, he has rushed the ball 16 times for 91 yards and has two receptions for 6 yards, including a touchdown. Thursday’s final preseason game against the Texans is Asiata's chance to solidify a roster spot.
“I’ve just got to keep pushing because nothing is locked up here,” said Asiata. “Just have to do my assignments and execute on the field and do what the coaches want me to do.”
Asiata has certainly caught the coaches’ attention. He is listed as the third fullback on a team that will likely carry one, but he has spent more time at tailback and that is where he has made hay.
“(Matt’s) done some things that make you pay attention to him,” said coach Leslie Frazier. “He’s had some nice runs, has good vision when he’s running with the football. He’s shown he can play a little bit of fullback, as well. He’s shown some versatility, as a tailback catching the ball out of the backfield. So we’ll get him some reps in that final ball game to keep him in the mix as we are trying to make that determination of who’s worthy of that final tailback spot.”
Even though he has outgained Lex Hilliard and Jordan Todman this preseason, Asiata has a long way to beat both players out. His flexibility is key, and the fact that he plays on three special team units (punt, punt return and kickoff return) is surely a point in his favor.
“Every chance I get to prove to the coaches what I can do, I am going to try to do my best to do it and just go hard at it,” said Asiata. “I have to play with a chip on my shoulder. There’s a lot of pressure going on. This Thursday, I just have to go prove what I can accomplish in this game.”
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