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In addition to the uncertainty surrounding the wide receiver room, starting right tackle Brian O'Neill is also listed as questionable due to a knee injury. O'Connell indicated that the final availability of these three players will not be confirmed until Sunday morning, as none of them were able to participate fully in practice throughout the week.
Managing Personnel and Depth Concerns
The team is currently weighing its options regarding roster adjustments, including the potential elevation of wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. from the practice squad. O'Connell noted that a decision on Beckham's status will be made Saturday. Should Jefferson and Addison be cleared to play on Sunday, it is likely that Beckham would be designated as a gameday inactive.
The injury report extends beyond the questionable trio, as the Vikings have already ruled out left tackle Christian Darrisaw, who remained in the concussion protocol throughout the week. Furthermore, the team will be without left guard Donovan Jackson for the remainder of the season following a knee injury sustained last week. In their absence, Joe Huber is set to start at left guard, while Ryan Van Demark will step in for Darrisaw. Should O'Neill be unable to suit up, rookie Caleb Tiernan is the expected replacement at right tackle.
Jefferson's Road to Recovery
Justin Jefferson, who played his collegiate football at LSU, has expressed a strong desire to return to the field for Sunday's game in his home state. The receiver has been sidelined since sustaining a left ankle sprain during the opening possession of the team's September 28 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He subsequently missed the October 4 matchup against the Miami Dolphins.
O'Connell noted that Jefferson has shown progress during the week, but the team remains cautious. The coaching staff is monitoring how the receiver responds to his workload before making a final determination that aligns with the best interests of the football team. Jefferson has recorded 13 receptions for 179 yards and two touchdowns this season. The Vikings are scheduled to enter their bye week immediately following the game against New Orleans.
