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Jones, 31, recently delivered a standout performance in the Vikings' 9-3 victory over the Chicago Bears, recording 105 rushing yards on 23 carries. Following that contest, it was revealed that Jones had finished the game wearing a knee brace. He also sustained a bruise to his left cheek after a heavy helmet-to-helmet collision with Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson.
Backfield depth concerns and roster adjustments
The situation is compounded by the ongoing absence of backup Jordan Mason, who remains on injured reserve after suffering a fractured thumb two weeks ago. With the primary rotation currently sidelined or limited, the Vikings are evaluating their remaining options to ensure they are prepared for Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Coach O'Connell noted that while Jones feels relatively positive, there is no definitive timeline for his availability this weekend. The coaching staff plans to manage his recovery with around-the-clock treatment, hoping to gradually increase his workload as the week progresses.
In response to the current personnel challenges, the Vikings have bolstered their depth by signing veterans DeeJay Dallas, Jerome Ford, and Jaret Patterson. Dallas was recently promoted to the active 53-man roster and recorded eight yards on two carries against Chicago. Meanwhile, Ford and Patterson are currently assigned to the practice squad. Rookie Demond Claiborne, who was with the team during training camp, remains the only other running back on the roster with significant time in the system, though his usage has been limited to just two snaps during the opening week of the season.
