Alfred Anderson is a former NFL running back who is best known for his time with the Minnesota Vikings. He played for the team during the 1980s and is remembered for his role as a reliable and versatile backup running back, as well as his contributions to the Vikings’ offense during his career.

Early Life and College Career

Alfred Anderson was born on November 23, 1960, in Chicago, Illinois. He attended Lake Forest High School in Lake Forest, Illinois, where he was a standout football player. After high school, Anderson went on to play college football at the University of Tulsa.

At Tulsa, Anderson had a successful career as a running back and was known for his combination of speed, agility, and power. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in multiple seasons and earned a reputation as one of the top running backs in the Missouri Valley Conference. His performances in college helped him gain the attention of NFL scouts, and he was selected in the 1982 NFL Draft.

NFL Career

Minnesota Vikings (1982–1987)

Alfred Anderson was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the 6th round of the 1982 NFL Draft. He became a key part of the Vikings’ backfield, playing as both a running back and a special teams contributor. Over the course of his career, Anderson earned a reputation for his hard-running style and his ability to make plays in the passing game as well.

• 1982–1984: Anderson’s early years with the Vikings were marked by a committee approach in the running back position, with Anderson splitting carries with other backs. His role on the team primarily focused on providing depth and contributing as a special teams player. He made a significant impact in his rookie season, contributing on both offense and special teams.
• 1985–1987: Anderson’s role increased during these years as he became one of the more consistent backups to the Vikings’ star running backs. In 1985, he posted solid numbers and was known for his tough, downhill running style. Though Anderson was not a feature back, he proved to be valuable in short-yardage situations and in providing a change of pace in the running game.

Best Seasons and Contributions

• 1985 Season: Anderson’s best season came in 1985, when he rushed for 461 yards and 5 touchdowns, with an average of 4.6 yards per carry. He served as a reliable backup to the Vikings’ starting running back, Ted Brown, and his contributions helped stabilize the Vikings’ ground game.
• Special Teams: Anderson was also a regular contributor on special teams, where his hard-nosed play and work ethic earned him further respect. He was known for his ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game, which helped extend his career with the Vikings.

Later Years and Retirement

Anderson played his final season in 1987 with the Vikings before retiring from professional football. Although he was not a starting back for most of his career, his versatility and contributions in various roles helped solidify his place in the team’s history.

Legacy

While Anderson was never a household name in the NFL, his steady contributions to the Minnesota Vikings and his versatility as both a running back and special teams player earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches. He played during a period when the Vikings had notable offensive weapons, including running backs like Ted Brown and Darrin Nelson, but Anderson’s role as a dependable backup and special teams player was crucial to the team’s success.

Although his time in the NFL was relatively short, Anderson’s commitment and professionalism made him a valuable asset during the 1980s for the Minnesota Vikings.

Career Stats

• Rushing Yards: 1,476
• Rushing Touchdowns: 13
• Receptions: 68
• Receiving Yards: 517
• Special Teams Contributions: Multiple years of service in special teams units

Summary

Alfred Anderson had a solid and respected NFL career, primarily with the Minnesota Vikings, where he was known for his versatility, toughness, and consistency. Although he was not a star player, Anderson contributed in many areas of the game, including as a running back, special teams player, and reliable backup. His efforts helped provide depth to the Vikings’ offense during the 1980s, and he is remembered as a key role player during that era.