The Minnesota Vikings encountered an early hurdle in training camp when star wide receiver Justin Jefferson suffered a minor injury just days into the preseason. The 26-year-old reported tightness and discomfort in his left hamstring, which was later diagnosed as a very mild strain.
The news raised concerns for Vikings fans, especially considering that a hamstring injury sidelined the four-time Pro Bowler for seven games during the 2023 season. However, head coach Kevin O’Connell clarified that this issue affects Jefferson’s opposite leg, and the team intends to handle it with caution.
As with previous years, Jefferson is not expected to participate in preseason games. Fortunately, the injury isn’t considered serious, and the Vikings remain confident that their top receiver will be ready to suit up for the Week 1 matchup against the Chicago Bears.
Addressing speculation around Jefferson’s return during Day 2 of padded practice, O’Connell emphasized his leadership and presence even while sidelined.
“He’s so important to our team… Justin wants to be out here, be around, wants to be present with his teammates, and not just the receiver group, the offense,” O’Connell said. “When the two-minute didn’t go well, it didn’t go the way you want offensively, I heard him. Not in a negative way, but just, ‘Hey, we know we’ve got to be better than that.’”
O’Connell also highlighted how Jefferson has embraced his role as a team leader during his recovery, calling the situation potentially a blessing in disguise. The downtime offers Jefferson a chance to mentally prepare for the grind of a full season while still supporting and engaging with the team.
“That was my challenge to him. There are a lot of ways we can maximize this time as one of our captains — a guy that sets the tone in this building — and he is knocking it out of the park. Rehab’s going really well, already progressing.”
Although Jefferson was allowed to call a few short plays during practice, he was reportedly frustrated by the limited involvement. Still, his drive to return remains crystal clear.
“I have zero worry about the opener, but there’s a lot of time between now and then…. He wants to get back out there. He does not want to stay wearing what I wear to practice much longer,” O’Connell joked.
Jefferson, who was Kirk Cousins’ go-to target for several seasons, played briefly with Sam Darnold last year and will now look to build chemistry with rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy. While this injury limits his reps, it hasn’t dulled his enthusiasm to connect with his new quarterback and continue growing as a leader.
Now entering his sixth season, Jefferson has already shattered several franchise and NFL records and established himself among the league’s elite. With a clean bill of health expected for the opener, Jefferson is setting his sights on an even more dominant campaign in 2025.
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