Uncertain Update on Justin Jefferson’s Injury Leaves Vikings in Suspense

MINNEAPOLIS — While strolling through the locker room on Sunday evening, Minnesota Vikings coach, Kevin O’Connell, engaged in a conversation with receiver Justin Jefferson. Placing his arm around Jefferson’s shoulders, O’Connell leaned in closely, uttering words of encouragement into his ear.

This was a conversation no coach wants to have. O’Connell’s star player, Jefferson, exited Sunday’s 27-20 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs due to a fourth-quarter injury to his right hamstring. This turn of events is a cause for concern, given that the team’s entire offense revolves around Jefferson.

O’Connell noted that it’s “still very early” to predict the timeline for Jefferson’s recovery or whether he will miss any playing time. However, a hamstring injury for someone in his position can pose problems.

“We’ll do our best to get him back as soon as possible,” stated O’Connell. “During his absence, he will undoubtedly remain an exceptional teammate in the locker room. Hopefully, we’ll have him back this week.”

Jefferson, who declined to comment, has not missed a game since being drafted by the Vikings in the first round of 2020. He rarely misses a snap and has made 53 consecutive starts since joining the starting lineup in Week 3 of his rookie season, playing in 92% of the Vikings’ offensive snaps.

“Justin has done an exceptional job of staying healthy and being available every week for the past 3½ years, which is no easy feat,” praised quarterback Kirk Cousins. “Even with this injury, it reminds us to be grateful for how healthy he has been.”

Sunday marked Jefferson’s least productive game of the season. He was targeted six times by Cousins, but dropped one pass, which was only his second drop in the past two seasons. He recorded only three receptions for 28 yards. The injury occurred midway through the fourth quarter when he stumbled while making a sharp turn on a route.

Heading into Week 5, the Vikings had targeted Jefferson 47 times, ranking him third in the NFL for most targets. The rookie receiver Jordan Addison was their next most targeted receiver, with 20 targets. (Tight end T.J. Hockenson ranked second on the team with 31 targets.) Addison, the Vikings’ first-round pick, had a career-high six receptions for 69 yards and a touchdown on Sunday.

“Jordan is the real deal,” exclaimed Cousins. “We made a great choice with that draft pick. He’s an exceptional player. Great hands, runs precise routes. Throughout my career, I’ve had the pleasure of playing with some incredibly talented skill groups. When I look at our current group, it’s as good as any I’ve been a part of.”

If Jefferson misses any playing time, veteran receivers K.J. Osborn and Brandon Powell would likely see an increase in targets. However, O’Connell mentioned that the Vikings have several options in that scenario.

“We have a group of individuals who are here for a reason,” stated O’Connell. “The advantage of having [fullback] C.J. Ham, three tight ends, and multiple running backs is that we can adapt our approach to move the ball and score points in the best possible way.”