The Minnesota Vikings designated Justin Jefferson for return from the injured reserve. He has a 21-day window to practice with the team before he can be activated to the active roster. It’s unlikely that he returns in Week 10 against the New Orleans Saints.
The Minnesota Vikings wide receiver got injured in Week 5.
Jefferson got injured in Week 5 against the Kansas City Chiefs. He injured his hamstring after he slipped on the turf in the fourth quarter and did not return to the game. Minnesota placed him on injured reserve. Jefferson has missed the last four games.
How did Minnesota do with Jefferson out?
The Vikings played the Chicago Bears in Week 6, the San Francisco 49ers in Week 7, the Green Bay Packers in Week 8, and the Atlanta Falcons in Week 9. Minnesota won all four of their games without Jefferson. They beat Chicago 19-13, San Francisco 22-17, Green Bay 24-10, and Atlanta 31-28.
What players stepped up?
Jordan Addison is one player who stepped up for Minneota. Addison had 22 receptions for 285 yards and four receiving touchdowns in the last four games. His best game came in Week 7, where he had seven receptions for 123 yards and two touchdowns. Addison has 41 receptions for 534 yards and seven touchdowns in his rookie season.
K.J. Osborn is another player who stepped up for Minnesota. Osborn had 19 receptions for 211 yards in the last four games. His best game came in Week 8, where he had eight receptions for 99 yards. He has 32 receptions for 377 yards and two touchdowns this season. Osborn left Week 9 with a concussion.
Brandon Powell is another player who stepped up for Minnesota. Powell had ten receptions for 109 yards and one touchdown in the last four games. His best game came in Week 7, where he had four receptions for 64 yards. Powell caught the game-winning touchdown pass in Week 9. He has 15 receptions for 157 yards and one touchdown this season.
The last player who stepped up is tight end T.J. Hockenson. He had 30 receptions for 293 yards and one touchdown the last four games. His best game came in Week 8, where he had six receptions for 88 yards and one touchdown. He has 60 receptions for 547 yards and three touchdowns this season.
How will Minnesota manage Justin Jefferson?
Expect the Vikings to give Justin Jefferson the majority of the targets when he comes back. He is arguably the top wide receiver in the NFL. Feeding him the ball seems to be the logical idea.
If he struggles, expect the Vikings to rely on Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson, and K.J. Osborn.
Minnesota has a legitimate chance of making the playoffs this year.
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