Overview
- Jefferson injured his left ankle on the opening drive of the Week 3 game on Sept. 27 and an MRI showed a sprain without long-term structural damage.
- Coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed Friday that Jefferson did not practice all week and will not play Sunday as the team prioritizes recovery rather than risk aggravating the injury.
- With Jefferson out, Jordan Addison is projected to be Minnesota’s primary receiving option and the offense will lean on Addison, T.J. Hockenson and other pass-catchers to fill the production gap.
- The Vikings elevated veteran punter Johnny Hekker after Brett Thorson was ruled out, and cornerback Charles Demmings is also out with a hamstring, prompting short-term roster adjustments.
- Minnesota plans to try to get Jefferson back into practice next week and is targeting Week 5 in New Orleans for his next chance to play, with the Week 6 bye providing an option to extend his recovery if needed.