After leading the XFL in rushing, DC Defenders star running back Abram Smith has landed an opportunity in the NFL. Smith’s agent, Murphy McGuire, announced his client signed with the Minnesota Vikings. The XFL also announced the signing.
The Vikings turned to Alexander Mattison as its lead back after releasing Dalvin Cook this offseason. However, Mattison limped off the field after team drills on Tuesday. While he expects to be OK, the Vikings appear to be adding depth.
Abram Smith went undrafted out of Baylor in 2022. Smith flipped from running back to linebacker after being seldom used at Baylor. Yet, he returned to running back in 2021 and led the Big 12 with 1,601 rushing yards through 14 games. Only Breece Hall, currently with the New York Jets, averaged more rushing yards per game in the conference.
Smith signed with the Saints as an undrafted rookie. The Saints waived Smith during the final cuts after the preseason. He landed with the DC Defenders in the XFL and emerged as a star.
Smith led the XFL with 788 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns. He was named to the All-XFL team. He rushed for 90 yards on 13 carries and two touchdowns in the Defenders’ 35-26 loss to the Arlington Renegades.
The Vikings also have Ty Chandler, Kene Nwangwu, and DeWayne McBride at running back on the roster.
