In a shocking turn of events, the Minnesota Vikings have made a decisive move to release veteran running back Ty Chandler following an electrifying performance by undrafted rookie Zavier Scott in the team’s final preseason game against the Tennessee Titans. Scott’s standout 72-yard performance, showcasing his versatility and explosiveness, has solidified his position as the team’s third running back (RB3), effectively ending Chandler’s tenure with the Vikings.
The Rise of Zavier Scott
From the outset of training camp, Zavier Scott emerged as a surprising contender for the RB3 role behind Aaron Jones and the team’s established backups. His consistent performance throughout the preseason, culminating in a remarkable showing against the Titans, left no doubt about his readiness to contribute. In that game, Scott carried the ball 12 times for 28 yards and added four receptions for 44 yards, totaling 72 yards of offensive production. His ability to impact both the running and passing game highlighted his value as a dynamic playmaker.
Scott’s ascent was particularly evident in the Vikings’ second preseason game against the New England Patriots, where he led the team with 10 carries for 28 yards and added 44 receiving yards on three catches. His versatility and knack for making plays in open space have drawn comparisons to a younger, more explosive version of Chandler, who struggled to make an impact in the same game, managing only 12 yards on three carries.
Ty Chandler’s Fall from Grace
Just a year ago, Ty Chandler was viewed as a breakout candidate for the Vikings. As a second-year backup, he racked up over 450 rushing yards while supporting Dalvin Cook, earning praise for his speed and potential. However, the arrival of Aaron Jones in 2024 significantly reduced Chandler’s role, and his lackluster preseason performances failed to justify his roster spot. In the Patriots game, Chandler was targeted once but failed to record a reception, further dimming his prospects.
With Scott’s emergence and the addition of Jordan Mason to the roster, Chandler found himself on the outside looking in. His inability to replicate the explosiveness that once defined his game, combined with Scott’s relentless rise, made the decision to cut him a harsh but logical one for the Vikings’ front office.
Trade Rumors Fizzle Out
Leading up to the roster cut deadline, speculation swirled about Chandler’s trade potential. According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, several NFL teams were in the market for a running back, and Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports listed Chandler as a potential trade candidate. Benjamin pointed to the Houston Texans as a possible destination, noting their need for depth with Joe Mixon on the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list and uncertainties surrounding Nick Chubb and Dameon Pierce. A trade could have offered Chandler a fresh start while providing the Vikings with assets in return.
However, the Vikings’ coaching staff and management ultimately prioritized Scott’s long-term potential over any marginal trade value Chandler might have commanded. The decision to showcase Chandler in the final preseason game against the Titans was likely a last-ditch effort to gauge his trade market or reaffirm Scott’s dominance. Scott’s 72-yard performance erased any lingering doubts, sealing Chandler’s fate.
The Vikings’ Roster Strategy
The Vikings’ decision to release Chandler reflects a broader strategy of prioritizing youth and versatility in their backfield. With Aaron Jones as the lead back and Jordan Mason providing depth, Scott’s ability to contribute as both a runner and receiver adds a dynamic element to the offense. His undrafted status only enhances the narrative of his improbable rise, as he outshone a veteran with a once-promising career.
As the NFL roster cut deadline looms, the Vikings’ move sends a clear message: performance trumps pedigree. Scott’s emergence as the RB3 not only reshapes the team’s backfield but also underscores the ruthless nature of roster decisions in the NFL. For Chandler, the release marks the end of his time in Minnesota, but his speed and experience may yet attract interest from teams in need of backfield depth, such as the Texans.
For now, Zavier Scott stands as the unlikely hero of the Vikings’ preseason, a testament to the unpredictability of the NFL and the fleeting nature of opportunity.