Training camp preview: Running backs

Looking at the Vikings' backfield as we dive into training camp storylines

Photo Courtesy Minnesota Vikings

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By Matthew Coller

Folks, it’s that time already. We are just two weeks away from the Minnesota Vikings beginning training camp. In the coming days we will be looking at every position in depth, analyzing every player on the depth chart, the most important storylines and the key numbers to know.

We begin with the Vikings’ running back room….

The depth chart

Jordan Mason — The 5-foot-11, 230-pound back was the team’s leading rusher in 2025 despite only technically getting the start five times out of 16 games. As the younger back at 27 years old, we might see a shift toward him in terms of starts and snap count but we shouldn’t declare him as the clear RB1 yet.

Aaron Jones — Jones enters his third year with the Vikings and his 10th NFL season. Last year when he was healthy he was part of a duo with Mason. The expectation is that it will continue to be a 1A/1B with the two runners depending on the opponent and game situation.

Zavier Scott — Scott was picked up in 2024 after he was released by the Colts and spent the 2024 season on the practice squad. He emerged during 2025 training camp as a potential third-down back type with strong receiving skills and the ability to pass block. When injuries hit, he ended up on the field rushing 32 times for 114 yards and catching 14 passes for 98 yards.

Demond Claiborne — The Vikings’ sixth-round draft pick from Wake Forest was an explosive run machine in college and ran a 4.37 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, catching the team’s attention as they look for more burst.

Kejon Owens — A breakout college player in 2025 at Florida International, Owens was an undrafted free agent signing by the Vikings. He is 5-foot-11, 210 pounds.

Max Bredeson — More of a tight end in college, Bredeson will be a fullback for the Vikings. He was a fifth-round draft pick in 2026 from Michigan. His job will be to replace long-time fullback CJ Ham.

The numbers to know