Justin Jefferson actually returned to practice on Wednesday, a huge step towards getting back on the field for the Minnesota Vikings. He was a limited participant due to that ankle injury, which he picked up way back in Week 3 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but this is a serious green light that it’s not some season-ender, especially with a bye week coming up right after Sunday’s game against the New Orleans Saints. But don’t pop the champagne just yet.
One Step Forward, Two Steps Back for the Vikings’ Pass Catchers
Yeah, Jefferson’s on the mend, and that’s fantastic news for the Vikings. But while he was making his way back, the rest of the receiving corps took another hit. Rookie Jordan Addison sat out entirely on Wednesday, sidelined with a hamstring issue. So you’ve got your superstar easing back in, while your other key wideout is suddenly a total question mark. That’s a brutal trade-off for a unit that’s gotta be on point against the Saints. It feels like they just can’t catch a break, literally.
The Rest of the Walking Wounded for Minnesota
It’s not just the receivers either. The Vikings had a few other critical guys missing practice. Christian Darrisaw, a cornerstone on the offensive line, was out with a concussion. Cornerback Chuck Demmings also didn’t hit the field, dealing with a hamstring problem of his own. Offensive tackle Brian O’Neill was limited, managing a knee injury that he’s been playing through for weeks without missing a game, which tells you how tough he is. Even Aaron Jones was limited, though his was just a rest day.
On the brighter side, rookie punter Brett Thorson was a full participant despite his hamstring and looks ready to boom some kicks against the Saints. And two guys who’ve been on injured reserve, center Michael Jurgens (elbow) and tight end Ben Yurosek (ankle), were both full participants, kicking off their 21-day window to return to the active roster after missing the first four weeks. That’s some depth finally showing up.
Saints Aren’t Exactly Healthy Either
The Saints, coming off their Monday night game, aren’t without their own major headaches. Their injury report was long, and it’s full of big names. Running back Alvin Kamara missed practice with a back issue, which is a massive blow to their offense. Wide receiver Barion Brown was out with a thigh injury, and linebacker Kaden Ellis sat out with a calf. Fellow linebacker Anfernee Jennings had a knee injury keeping him off the field, and even star receiver Chris Olave missed practice, though his was listed as a rest day. Both teams are gonna be limping into this Sunday showdown.
With both teams dealing with such significant injuries, especially to key offensive playmakers, this game against the New Orleans Saints is going to be a real grind. It’s less about who’s playing well and more about who’s left standing. Get ready for some serious grit this Sunday.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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