Though the UNC football team only enjoyed Tennessee transfer Ty Chandler for the 2021 season, his impact was immediately felt.
Chandler was brought in to replace the loss of 1,000-yard backs Michael Carter and Javonte Williams, the latter of whom now starts for the Denver Broncos. Chandler greatly exceeded expectations in Chapel Hill, finishing with 1,092 rushing yards and second-team All-ACC honors.
Chandler’s successful collegiate career caught the attention of NFL scouts, with the Minnesota Vikings making him their fifth-round, 2022 NFL Draft selection. He was originally brought in to provide backfield depth, but with Dalvin Cook now a New York Jet, Chandler is now Minnesota’s number two back.
Though the Vikings lost a 21-20 heartbreaker against the Denver Broncos on Sunday Night Football last weekend, Chandler enjoy his best game as a pro. He carried the football 10 times for 73 yards and caught four passes for 37 yards, leading all Minnesota running backs/pass-catchers in scrimmage yards.
"I'm excited to see him grow and make plays for us." – QB Josh Dobbs on RB Ty Chandlers performance tonight. pic.twitter.com/eFZm5sbIZE
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) November 20, 2023
Chandler is already receiving praise from veteran teammates in his second NFL season, including current starting quarterback Josh Dobbs. While coaches make the ultimate decisions on who plays, your starting quarterback speaking highly of you bodes well for future opportunities.
After only registering eight carries in his first eight games this year, Chandler now has 25 in his past two. He also hauled in four passes for 37 yards against the Broncos, both season-highs.
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