After Eagles game, Vikings RB reveals ‘sick’ and ‘unacceptable’ comments

For all the benefits of social media, it can also be a very ugly place — especially for athletes.

Minnesota Vikings running back Alexander Mattison revealed the dark side of it after a 34-28 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday night. In the game, Mattison fumbled in the first quarter, the first of four turnovers (all fumbles) for Minnesota in the loss.

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On Instagram, Mattison shared two screengrabbed comments directed at him that included insensitive and hurtful posts.

To one racist message that likened holding a gun to holding a football … and said “try something new please,” Mattison wrote in all capital letters: “SMFH … this is not ok. Ya’ll might wonder why post this. Peep the next one first ..”

The next post drew a longer response. It included more racist comments and that he was “paid millions and can’t do s***.” The fan also told him to kill himself.

Mattison wrote, again in all capital letters: “Y’all can come at me all you want about fantasy and, ‘You suck’ blah blah blah. I really could care less. But this s*** is unacceptable. SMFH I hope the 60+ people who decided to come at me with disgustingly disrespectful messages tonight in DM’s and comments. Really reflect on WTF you say and how it could truly affect someone..

“Under my helmet, I am a human … a father … a son. This is sick. SMH”

The play that seemed to draw the scorn of fans occurred in Minnesota’s second drive after it had intercepted Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. Down 3-0 at the Minnesota 35, the ball was jarred loose from Mattison’s grip after two yards by cornerback Avonte Maddox. The Eagles missed the 55-yard field goal on the ensuing drive.

“We are sickened by the hatred and racial slurs directed toward Alexander Mattison following last night’s game,” the Vikings said in a statement. “There simply is no room for racist words or actions in sports or society. … We stand with Alexander and all the players who, unfortunately, experience this type of ignorant prejudicial behavior, and we ask our fans to continue to fight to eliminate racism.”

Mattison has taken the No. 1 RB job this season after Minnesota let go of Dalvin Cook, who signed with the New York Jets. He rushed eight times for 28 yards and had three catches for 11 yards. The Boise State standout had 44 total yards and a TD in the Week 1 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

“We’re not going to share the images of the disgusting behavior and messages that @AlexMattison22 was subject to last night, but we will call out and stand against this type of hate,” the NFLPA said Friday. “Any players who’d like info on filtering their inboxes, please head to our IG or send us a DM.”

Editor’s note: NJ Advance Media typically limits reporting on suicides to those that occur in crowded public places, involve public figures or, in special circumstances, where there is a larger public impact. Suicidal thoughts and behaviors can be reduced with the proper mental health support and treatment. If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.

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Jimmy Hascup may be reached at jhascup@njadvancemedia.com.