Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson was designated to return from the injured reserve list ahead of the Vikings’ game with the New Orleans Saints, and Saints fans know just how challenging an opponent he can be. Jefferson set new records for receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,809) last season, going off against the Saints in London to the tune of 10 catches for 147 yards. And that’s after his impressive college career at LSU.
Jefferson was sidelined four weeks ago with a hamstring injury. He now has 21 days to to play in a game. According to head coach Kevin O’Connell, it is unlikely Jefferson returns this week.
“I think that would be a little aggressive,” O’Connell said after Jefferson was cleared to return to practice. “He can’t wait to get back out there.”
Minnesota shouldn’t be overlooked due to Jefferson’s absence. Matter of fact, the Vikings have won all four of the games he’s missed. Rookie first-round pick Jordan Addison has began to have more success in recent weeks with seven touchdown catches in his first nine games. Joshua Dobbs will be an interesting player to watch at quarterback, but do not release a sigh of relief just yet. Jefferson or no Jefferson, the Vikings are interesting matchup for the Saints.
