The Minnesota Vikings got encouraging news on a few fronts Wednesday as they opened their week of work for Sunday’s matchup with the New Orleans Saints at Caesar’s Superdome.
Justin Jefferson was back on the field in a limited role, which at least puts him back in the mix after missing time. Jordan Addison, meanwhile, did not practice because of a hamstring issue that Kevin O’Connell described as minor, “if it is anything at all,” so it does not sound like a long-term concern. Christian Darrisaw also sat out while working through concussion protocol, leaving his status less certain heading into the weekend.
There was better news on the special teams side. Brett Thorson was a full participant, matching O’Connell’s expectation that he would be back as the Vikings’ punter and holder against the Saints. Minnesota also waived Johnny Hekker from the practice squad, another sign Thorson should be ready for Sunday.
Two more Vikings - Michael Jurgens and Ben Yurosek - were full participants after their 21-day windows to return from injured reserve were opened Wednesday. Whether either one gets activated in time for the game still may depend on other roster moves. Brian O’Neill, who was limited with a knee issue, also appears to be dealing with something minor and is likely to play through it.
The Vikings’ first report also listed Jordan Mason as out with a thumb injury, while Charles Demmings did not practice because of a hamstring issue. Aaron Jones was limited with a non-injury-related rest day, and the report also showed full participation from Jurgens, Thorson and Yurosek.
On the New Orleans side, the Saints listed a trio of starters on injured reserve: Kelvin Banks, Bryan Bresee and Travis Etienne. They also had several other players working through various issues, with Julian Blackmon, Noah Fant, Carl Granderson, Mike Reid and Tyler Shough all limited, and Jaylan Ford and Lorenzo Styles turning in full sessions.
Alvin Kamara did not practice because of back soreness after Monday night’s game against the Falcons, making him one to watch. Tyler Shough is also dealing with an injury, but it’s to the non-throwing left hand, which makes it less likely to keep him out Sunday.
The Saints also opened 21-day return windows for Lorenzo Styles and Jaylan Ford, though it remains unclear whether either will be activated for this game. New Orleans’ injury list was long, but beyond the names at the top, the team’s Wednesday report suggests most of the rest may not carry major weight for Sunday.
Stay tuned.
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