The Minnesota Vikings have been dealt a major blow to their offense as wide receiver Justin Jefferson will be placed on injured reserve, according to an Associated Press source. The rookie wideout has been a key contributor to the team’s success this season, but his absence will be felt for the next four games.
Jefferson has been a standout player since being drafted in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. He has quickly become one of the most productive rookie receivers in the league, leading all rookies in receptions (57) and receiving yards (1,039). His presence on the field has been invaluable for the Vikings, as he has provided a reliable target for quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Unfortunately, Jefferson suffered an ankle injury during the team’s Week 12 matchup against the Carolina Panthers. While the severity of the injury is still unknown, it is clear that he will need to miss at least four games in order to recover. This is a huge loss for the Vikings, as they will have to find ways to make up for his absence.
The team will likely turn to veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen to fill the void left by Jefferson. Thielen has been a reliable target for Cousins this season, and he will be expected to take on an even bigger role in the offense in Jefferson’s absence. The team may also look to other receivers such as Bisi Johnson and Chad Beebe to help fill the void.
The Vikings will undoubtedly miss Jefferson’s presence on the field, but they will have to find ways to make up for his absence. With Thielen and other receivers stepping up, they should be able to keep their offense running smoothly until Jefferson is able to return.
