Kyler Murray was back on the Minnesota Vikings’ practice field Wednesday, but only in a limited role as he works through concussion recovery, keeping the door cracked for a possible return Sunday against Chicago.
That doesn’t mean the Vikings are ready to call it. With quarterbacks shielded from contact during the week anyway, Murray’s limited work is just one step in the NFL concussion protocol, not a green light. Coach Kevin O’Connell made clear the team is taking it day by day and wants a decision by Friday.
“We’re just going day by day right now,” O’Connell said. “He’s got to be medically cleared before we even have the conversation about playing in a game.”
If Murray can’t go, Carson Wentz would continue running the offense.
The Vikings’ backfield took a bigger hit. Jordan Mason was placed on injured reserve with a designation to return after suffering a broken thumb, meaning he’s expected back after the minimum four weeks, O’Connell said. X-rays showed a small fracture that led to a minor procedure.
Mason’s injury comes after a strong opener against Green Bay, when he carried 15 times for 59 yards and a touchdown in the season-opening win before reporting soreness the next day.
Aaron Jones remains at the top of the depth chart, but Minnesota is clearly preparing for a heavier workload elsewhere. Deejay Dallas was moved from the practice squad to the active roster, and his role is expected to grow beyond special teams and third-down pass protection.
The Vikings also added fifth-year veteran Jerome Ford to the practice squad for depth. Rookie Demond Claiborne was a healthy scratch last week, and Ford arrives after spending the past four seasons with Cleveland.
“Aaron obviously is going to be heavily involved,” O’Connell said. “At the same time, we want to keep him fresh.”
Minnesota is coming off a 39-22 victory after erasing a 12-point deficit late in the third quarter.
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