Fantasy football owners likely know of Minnesota Vikings running back Matt Asiata thanks to his touchdown vulturing ways last season in Adrian Peterson's absence. Though Peterson returned to the team this past season, Asiata was still able to carve out a role for himself behind him and Jerick McKinnon. But was that role valuable enough to merit a new contract as he enters free agency this offseason?
Asiata caught 19 passes for 132 yards, producing more receiving yards than rushing. He also played 162 of 209 snaps on pass plays, according to Pro Football Focus (via ESPN). He may not have scored any touchdowns in 2015, but he did return to special teams where he was a quality blocker on Minnesota's kick return units. Say what you want about Cordarrelle Patterson as a first-round receiver, the guy is still an effective return man thanks in no small part to Asiata.
But the veteran back will turn 29 this summer. He's a solid third-down play and special teams contributor, even a goal-line back in a squeeze, but he's not a must-have commodity on the open market. Does that give him enough of a role in Minnesota.
"Yes," ESPN Vikings reporter Ben Goessling wrote. "If Peterson improves as a pass blocker and receiver to the point where he's on the field on third downs more often next year, Asiata might not have much of a role. But he'd return cheaply enough, and the Vikings think highly enough of him, that it's easy to see him back in 2016."
So, what is Goessling's prediction for the role player?
"The Vikings will give Asiata a one- or two-year deal with a modest amount of guaranteed money," Goessling continued. "He could have to fight for a roster spot in training camp - it's hard to see the Vikings not bringing in a young running back or two, possibly a rookie free agent - but Asiata's value on special teams and his reliability on offense should keep him around."
Asiata is the type of hard-nosed player who keeps a locker room honest. A quality guy to have on the roster even if he isn't necessarily a huge piece.
