The Minnesota Vikings are in desperate need of a spark heading into Week 14, and it looks like veteran running back Aaron Jones is ready to provide just that.
After exiting last week’s loss to the Seahawks with a shoulder injury, Jones returned to practice in a limited capacity throughout the week. But here’s the good news for Vikings fans - he’s officially off the injury report and cleared to play Sunday against the Washington Commanders.
That’s a big boost for a Vikings team riding a four-game skid and searching for answers on offense. While Jones hasn’t been the featured back this season, his return adds a layer of versatility to Minnesota’s backfield that could come in handy against a Commanders defense that’s struggled to keep offenses in check.
Jones has tallied 450 total yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns this season, but it’s been a quiet campaign by his standards. He’s had double-digit carries just once all year, a far cry from the workload he carried in his prime years. Still, even in a limited role, his ability to contribute as both a runner and a receiver gives the Vikings a dynamic option to mix into the offense.
Of course, Jordan Mason remains the lead back in Minnesota. He’s put together a solid season with 578 rushing yards and five scores, showing a physical, downhill style that’s earned him the lion’s share of touches. But Mason and Jones offer contrasting skill sets - Mason brings the power, while Jones brings the shiftiness and pass-catching chops that can create mismatches in space.
Against a Washington team that’s also hungry for a win, the Vikings are going to need every weapon they can get. Jones might not be the workhorse he once was, but if he can give Minnesota a few explosive plays and keep the defense honest, it could help open things up for the rest of the offense.
Bottom line: Jones is healthy, active, and ready to contribute. And with the Vikings’ season hanging in the balance, that might be exactly what they need right now.