EAGAN, Minn. – Ameer Abdullah is running it back in Purple again in 2021.

The Vikings on Wednesday announced that they have re-signed the running back and kick returner.

Abdullah has been with Minnesota since November 2018, when he joined the Vikings after being waived by the division-rival Lions. He originally was a second-round draft pick by Detroit in 2015.

During his time in Purple, Abdullah has returned 38 kickoffs for 935 yards (24.6 average). He also has added depth to the Vikings running backs room, totaling 31 carries for 157 yards rushing, plus 24 catches for 156 yards and three receiving touchdowns.

Abdullah nabbed two of those scores during the 2020 season, each of them occurring in games against Detroit. His touchdowns helped the Vikings sweep the Lions with victories of 34-20 and 37-35, respectively.

Not only does Abdullah add value to Minnesota's roster, but the 27-year-old has proved an incredible asset to the Twin Cities community. Abdullah is active in giving back and also is a member of the Vikings Social Justice Committee, which helps provide a voice – and resources – around racial disparities and injustices.

Abdullah remains part of a Vikings corps led by Dalvin Cook, who received his second consecutive Pro Bowl nod following the 2020 campaign, and Alexander Mattison.

Mike Boone recently signed with the Broncos in free agency, ending his run with Minnesota that began in 2018.