NFL

Vikings RB Jordan Mason Placed on Injured Reserve Following Thumb Surgery

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Sep 17, 2026, 01:21 IST

Minnesota Vikings running back Jordan Mason faces a minimum four-week absence after undergoing surgery for a fractured thumb, forcing the team to adjust its backfield depth ahead of Sunday's clash with Chicago.

Vikings RB Jordan Mason Placed on Injured Reserve Following Thumb Surgery

The Minnesota Vikings have been dealt a significant blow to their offensive depth following the news that running back Jordan Mason has been placed on injured reserve. The move comes after Mason underwent a surgical procedure to repair a fractured thumb, an injury that will sideline him for at least the next four weeks.

Head coach Kevin O'Connell confirmed the development on Wednesday, noting that Mason reported soreness on Monday, which prompted further medical evaluation. Despite the setback, O'Connell expressed optimism regarding the recovery timeline, stating that he does not anticipate the absence extending beyond the mandatory four-week period.

Backfield Adjustments and Quarterback Uncertainty

Mason’s absence creates an immediate void in the Vikings' rotation. Although Aaron Jones Sr. earned the start in the team's 39-22 Week 1 victory over the Green Bay Packers, it was Mason who led the ground attack with 15 carries for 59 yards. To address the vacancy, the team has promoted veteran DeeJay Dallas from the practice squad and added Jerome Ford to the practice unit. Dallas, who joined the organization in early September, is expected to serve as the primary backup to Jones for Sunday’s game against the Chicago Bears.

The roster shuffle coincides with ongoing uncertainty surrounding quarterback Kyler Murray. Murray remains in the concussion protocol after suffering an injury during the 11th play of Sunday’s opener. While he was scheduled for limited participation in practice, his availability for the upcoming contest remains day-to-day. Should Murray be ruled out, Carson Wentz is slated to start under center, with J.J. McCarthy serving as the backup and the potential for Max Brosmer to be elevated from the practice squad.