After a 1-4 start, the Minnesota Vikings were almost destined to have a disappointing 2023 NFL season.
The Vikings looked like they were going to finish toward the bottom of the standings, but they’ve turned things around thanks to a five-game win streak that could very well extend to six games when they take on the Denver Broncos in Week 11.
The winning streak is impressive on its own, but it’s even more astounding given the fact that the team has been without superstar wide receiver Justin Jefferson.
Jefferson was injured in the Week 5 game against Kansas City Chiefs. He was placed on injured reserves.
Jefferson was rumored to be out for the remainder of the regular-season, but the team is on track for a playoff spot, so he will be back soon.
Jefferson was able to practice in a limited capacity this past week. However, he was not activated from IR.
Vikings’ WR Justin Jefferson is not being activated off the injured reserve list today, per sources, and he will be ineligible to play Sunday night vs. the Broncos. His next chance to play will come next Monday night vs. the Chicago Bears, but keep in mind, the Vikings have a bye… pic.twitter.com/R4WFlsgiSt
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 18, 2023
The Vikings are still playing well despite his loss
— Sports hub (@sports_hub_1) November 18, 2023
Next time will be better💪
— Consultant Konnect Svcs (@ConsultantKct) November 18, 2023
I pray he will get better.
— C. J. (@pioneerjoshua8) November 18, 2023
He’s not risking anything without that extension
— Nelson (@BelgerNelson) November 18, 2023
Then, you can say: Wow!
Then, you can say: Wow!
Then, you can say: Wow!
Then, you can say: Wow!🤍— Anointing Aha (@AnointingAha) November 18, 2023
He doesn’t want to only football. He only wants his new deal.
— Steve (@somatg3) November 18, 2023
The fans are largely accepting the news, though there is some disappointment that Jefferson will not be playing this week.
There’s a possibility that Jefferson is able to play in Week 12, though with the team’s bye week the following week they could just opt to rest him until Week 14.
Their record between now and the bye week might dictate how they want to handle the wideout, but the most important thing is ensuring he’s fully healthy before he returns to game action.
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Vikings Promote a Notable LB from Practice Squad