Vikings Fans Breathe Sigh of Relief: Aaron Jones Poised to Play Through Pain
In a season already marred by injuries to key players across the league, Minnesota Vikings fans received a dose of promising news on Saturday. According to a source close to the team, star running back Aaron Jones is expected to suit up and play against the Detroit Lions on Sunday despite nursing a hamstring injury that had him listed as questionable leading up to the Week 7 matchup.
Jones, who has been a vital cog in the Vikings’ offensive machine, first reported tightness in his right hip during pregame warmups last week against the New York Jets in London. Though he attempted to play through the discomfort, the 27-year-old back aggravated the injury on a leaping 23-yard reception in the first quarter, forcing him to the sideline for the remainder of the contest.
“That play really kind of did it,” Jones admitted when discussing the moment he knew his day was done.
The versatile weapon out of the backfield was limited in practice throughout the week, casting doubt on his availability for the critical NFC North showdown. Head coach Kevin O’Connell remained tight-lipped about Jones’ status, offering little insight into whether the team’s leading rusher would be able to go.
Cause for Optimism in Minnesota
However, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Saturday that a source indicated Jones is indeed expected to play, providing a much-needed boost to a Vikings offense looking to keep pace in a surprisingly competitive division. While the extent of Jones’ workload remains unclear, his mere presence on the field should strike fear into the hearts of a Lions defense that has struggled to contain explosive playmakers.
Through the first five games of the season, Jones had amassed 395 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 88 carries, adding 16 receptions for 182 yards and another score through the air. His dynamic skill set and ability to create mismatches have been a cornerstone of the Vikings’ game plan, making his availability all the more crucial as the team looks to maintain its early lead in the NFC North.
A Chance to Shine for Mattison
Should Jones be limited or suffer a setback, the Vikings will likely turn to fourth-year pro Alexander Mattison to shoulder the load. Mattison filled in admirably last week against the Jets, rushing for 59 yards on 13 carries and catching an eight-yard touchdown pass. While not as explosive as Jones, Mattison has proven to be a reliable option when called upon, averaging a respectable 4.1 yards per carry for his career.
As kickoff approaches, all eyes will be on Jones and how he responds to the rigors of game action. For Vikings fans and fantasy football managers alike, the hope is that the star back can recapture his early-season form and continue to be the catalyst for an offense with aspirations of playing deep into January.
The Bottom Line
- Despite being listed as questionable with a hamstring injury, Aaron Jones is expected to play against the Lions in Week 7
- Jones suffered the injury during last week’s game against the Jets in London and was limited in practice throughout the week
- The extent of Jones’ workload remains unclear, but his presence alone should provide a boost to the Vikings’ offense
- If Jones is limited, expect Alexander Mattison to see an increased role in the offensive gameplan
As the Vikings aim to secure their standing atop the NFC North, having their most dynamic offensive weapon on the field could prove to be the difference between victory and defeat. With kickoff just around the corner, the football world waits with bated breath to see if Jones can defy the odds and deliver when his team needs him most.
