The Minnesota Vikings made headlines Monday when they traded quarterback and 2024 first-round pick JJ McCarthy to the New York Giants. With McCarthy now out of the picture, the Vikings will continue to be led by former two-time Pro Bowl quarterback Kyler Murray. Minnesota leads the NFC North at 3-0, but after seeing Justin Jefferson suffer an ankle injury on Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers there was some concern that the star wide receiver could miss time.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday afternoon that Jefferson avoided a major injury and could suit up in Week 4 versus the Miami Dolphins. At just 27 years old, the four-time Pro Bowler is already one of the best wideouts in the NFL and one of the best pass catchers in Vikings history. Jefferson moved past Hall of Famer Randy Moss into second place on Minnesota's all-time receptions list in Week 2 and enters Week 4 with 592 career catches.
The 2020 first-round pick hasn't missed a game since the 2023 campaign and has posted six straight seasons of at least 1,000 receiving yards. Jefferson won the 2022 AP Offensive Player of the Year award after leading the NFL in targets (184), receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,809). The LSU product has been the Vikings' top offensive weapon again in 2026, pacing the squad in targets (17), receptions (13), receiving yards (179) and receiving touchdowns (two).
With matchups against the lowly Dolphins (0-3) and New Orleans Saints (1-2) ahead of its Week 6 bye, Minnesota can afford to be cautious with their superstar wide receiver.
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