Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell Says Justin Jefferson Sidelined with Mild Hamstring Strain…read more…
Minnesota Vikings fans held their breath this week when star wide receiver Justin Jefferson was noticeably absent during a key portion of training camp. On Friday, head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed that Jefferson is currently dealing with a mild hamstring strain — an injury the team is treating with caution as they prepare for the 2025 NFL season.
“He’s got a mild hamstring strain,” O’Connell told reporters following the team’s morning walk-through. “It’s nothing too serious, but with a player of Justin’s caliber, we’re going to be smart about it. We want him 100% when the games really matter.”
The strain reportedly occurred during individual drills earlier in the week. While the specifics of the incident have not been disclosed, Jefferson appeared to be favoring his leg shortly afterward and was removed from any further physical activity. Since then, he’s been participating in team meetings and staying involved from the sidelines, supporting his teammates while he recovers.
A Conservative Approach
The Vikings’ coaching staff and medical team are taking a conservative approach — one that’s become increasingly common around the league for high-impact skill players like Jefferson, especially in preseason. Though he’s not expected to miss extended time, the team isn’t setting a firm timetable for his return.
“We’re just letting it calm down and monitoring how he responds day by day,” said O’Connell. “With Justin, it’s not about getting him back out there as fast as possible — it’s about keeping the big picture in mind.”
That big picture includes Week 1 of the regular season, just six weeks away. The Vikings open their 2025 campaign against the Chicago Bears, a divisional rival, and they’ll need all hands on deck — especially their All-Pro receiver.
A Vital Piece of the Offense
Justin Jefferson has been nothing short of sensational since entering the NFL in 2020. The former LSU star has redefined what it means to be a No. 1 receiver in today’s league, leading the NFL in receiving yards in 2022 and earning multiple Pro Bowl nods.
Despite missing seven games last season due to a more serious hamstring injury, Jefferson still managed to put up over 1,000 receiving yards — a testament to his elite playmaking ability and consistency. He enters the 2025 season as the undisputed focal point of the Vikings’ offense, especially with the departure of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins and the team’s commitment to grooming rookie passer J.J. McCarthy.
“JJ [McCarthy] is going to benefit from having Justin out there,” said offensive coordinator Wes Phillips. “That chemistry is still building, and while it’s unfortunate we won’t get as many live reps this camp, we’re confident Justin will be ready when it counts.”
Injury History Sparks Concern
Jefferson’s recent hamstring strain brings back memories of last season’s midyear injury, which sidelined him from Weeks 6 through 12. Though the current strain is reportedly less severe, the recurrence of lower-body issues could be cause for concern among fans and analysts alike.
Still, Jefferson himself has not expressed any long-term worry.
In a brief conversation with reporters outside the Vikings’ training facility, he remained upbeat: “It’s all good. Just being smart with it. I’m feeling better already.”
The Vikings’ medical staff has not suggested any structural damage or risk of aggravation, and team insiders say he could resume light on-field activity within the next week, pending reevaluation.
Roster Implications
In Jefferson’s absence, the team will get a closer look at its younger receiving corps — a group that includes Jordan Addison, Brandon Powell, and rookie Devontez Walker. Addison, in particular, is expected to step into a leadership role in Jefferson’s temporary absence.
“It’s a good opportunity for some of our younger guys to get reps with the ones,” said O’Connell. “But of course, nobody replaces what Justin brings.”
Addison, entering his second year, showed flashes of brilliance last season and has been touted as a breakout candidate heading into 2025. Having more first-team reps with McCarthy could accelerate his development and boost the offense’s depth.
Contract Considerations
Jefferson recently signed a historic contract extension — a four-year, $140 million deal that made him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. The Vikings’ investment in their star wideout reflects how vital he is to their long-term plans, and it’s no surprise they’re handling his current injury with extreme care.
“Anytime a guy like that has something flare up, we’re going to be proactive,” O’Connell said. “He’s earned that level of attention.”
Though the injury is not considered serious, the new contract has increased the scrutiny surrounding Jefferson’s health and availability. However, early indications suggest this will be a minor hiccup rather than a lingering issue.
Looking Ahead
As the Vikings enter the next phase of their training camp, the focus remains on installing the new offensive system tailored for McCarthy, developing young weapons, and refining their defensive identity. Jefferson’s health remains a key storyline, but team officials appear confident he’ll be at full strength long before the regular season kicks off.
For now, Jefferson will continue to rehab and participate in non-contact activities, such as walkthroughs and film study. His leadership off the field continues to be praised by coaches and teammates alike.
“We all know what Justin can do on Sundays,” said O’Connell. “What impresses me most is how much he wants to be out there, even when he can’t suit up. That’s the kind of player and leader you build around.”
In the meantime, the Vikings will carefully monitor Jefferson’s recovery while preparing for their preseason opener against the Houston Texans in two weeks. Whether or not Jefferson sees the field in preseason remains uncertain, but one thing is clear — Minnesota’s top priority is ensuring t
heir star wideout is ready to shine in Week 1 and beyond.
