The 49ers are likely to avoid perhaps the best offensive player on their schedule. NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero on Tuesday reported the Vikings are placing wide receiver Justin Jefferson on injured reserve because of a hamstring strain.
Jefferson caught only three balls for 28 yards in Minnesota’s Week 5 loss to the Chiefs and played just 71 percent of the team’s offensive snaps – his lowest number in a non-Week 18 game since Week 7 of the 2021 season.
Buy 49ers TicketsInstead of trying to battle through the injury, Jefferson will go on IR with no specific timeline for his return. Going on IR will keep him out for at least four weeks, which will include the 49ers and Vikings Week 7 showdown on Monday Night Football.
Jefferson led the NFL in receptions and receiving yards last season, and won the Offensive Player of the Year award. He was putting together another nice year for the 1-4 Vikings with 36 catches for 571 yards and three touchdowns.
