Thursday, November 9, 2023

Justin Jefferson Inches Closer To A Return

Justin Jefferson injured a hamstring in the 27-20 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on October 8. He was placed on injured reserve a few days later. That move took him out of action for the next four games. He became eligible to come off of injured reserve after Sunday’s 31-28 win over the Atlanta Falcons. Yesterday, the Vikings opened the 21-day window for Jefferson’s return to the roster and the field. It won’t take that long. 

It sure would be nice if Jefferson could return for Sunday’s game against the New Orleans Saints. While the Vikings have won the four games he’s missed, he’s needed. Of course he’s needed, Jefferson is the best receiver in the league. The Vikings will do nothing to jeopardize his return. Asked if there’s any chance Jefferson could play Sunday, head coach Kevin O’Connell said, “I think that would probably be a little aggressive. I think he feels really good, and I think we all feel good about where he’s at, but we’re going to take it a day at a time and ultimately do what’s best for Justin and his long-term future here in Minnesota. Clearly, he wants to get back and have an impact on his team. He’s been all-in, right there on the sideline with his teammates fighting it out every single week. He can’t wait to get back out there.” 

When I think of hamstring injuries, I often think of the hamstring injury that Adam Thielen battled in 2019. After missing some time, he tried to play, perhaps before he should, against the Kansas City Chiefs (Chiefs again). He lasted a couple of plays and missed a few more weeks. Don’t mess with hamstring issues. Don’t mess with with any muscle pulls or strains. Unlike snapped ligaments or tendons or broken bones, muscle pulls or strains don’t seem like much but they can linger. They’re maddening. 

I can’t wait to see Justin Jefferson back on the field. His team has missed him. I’ve missed him. I hope that he’s 100% ready for this week’s game against the Saints. I believe that his return is more likely to be the Week 11 Sunday night against the Denver Broncos. Whichever, his return to the field is close. 





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