Minnesota Vikings fans have understandably been concerned about Justin Jefferson’s latest injury. The four-time All-Pro wide receiver, however, provided some assurance ahead of his team’s preseason opener against the Houston Texans on Saturday.
Sidelined since July 24 with a strained left hamstring, Jefferson — who was not in the lineup for Saturday’s matchup — delivered a simple message via the NFL’s social media account on X.
“Don’t worry,” Jefferson said, “Jet’s gonna be on that field real soon. Real soon.”
That optimism from the 26-year-old should ease concerns, especially considering Jefferson missed seven games in 2023 with a torn right hamstring.
The sixth-year pro took himself out of the Vikings’ practice on July 24, telling reporters afterward that he felt “tightness” in both legs and did not want to risk further damage. According to Minnesota coach Kevin O’Connell, a follow-up MRI exam showed a “very mild” strain.
O’Connell also noted that, even if Jefferson was completely healthy, he would not have participated in the Vikings’ preseason games.
“The best thing is we avoided anything serious,” O’Connell said at the time. “I see no concerns in regards to [Week 1] and have no worry at all that we’ll be able to get Justin ready to go for the regular season.”
The 2022 Offensive Player of the Year, Jefferson has recorded more receiving yards (7,432) than any other player through five NFL seasons. He already ranks fourth in franchise history in receiving yards and first in receiving yards per game (96.5), which also ranks first in NFL history.
–Field Level Media
