Get to know Raiders’ new running back Alexander Mattison

Mattison is passionate about giving back to the communities that’ve poured into him.

He founded the “I AM GIFTED” organization, which provides mental health and educational resources to young children in San Bernardino, California; Boise, Idaho; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. He’s donated to several scholarship programs in his hometown to benefit students at his alma mater, along with hosting free youth football camps in those areas.

Mattison was named the Week 1 NFLPA Community MVP of the 2023-24 season after hosting a back-to-school event for 250 children in Minnesota, while also launching his “Rush 2 Give” initiative. During the event, he teamed up with Salvation Army to hand out new backpacks, books, school supplies and clothing to students.

“I encourage mental health practices because I have personally experienced how hard life realistically is,” Mattison said at the time. “I hope that after an I AM GIFTED experience, no matter what adversity they might face, these kids can look in the mirror and say, ‘I AM GIFTED’ and truly believe it.

“Not only do I aim to help provide knowledge and resources that I didn’t have growing up, but my goal is to help individuals, the youth especially, to open their eyes to doing everything they possibly can do to become the best version of themselves in every aspect of their life, day in and day out.”