Minnesota Vikings star wide receiver Justin Jefferson will miss time in training camp as he deals with a left hamstring strain, coach Kevin O’Connell told reporters Friday.
Jefferson did not practice Friday after leaving Thursday’s practice about a third of the way through the session, telling reporters he felt “tightness” in both legs. He cited his experience from the 2023 season when he missed seven games with a torn right hamstring as a reason to be cautious.
The four-time Pro Bowler and 2022 Offensive Player of the Year was sent for an MRI exam after Thursday’s practice and was diagnosed with what O’Connell called a “very mild” strain in his left hamstring, notably not the same spot as the 2023 injury.
“The best thing is, we avoided anything serious. I see no concerns in regards to the opener,” O’Connell said Friday. “I have no worry at all that we’ll be able to get Justin ready to go for the regular season.”
O’Connell said Jefferson will be reevaluated next week.
After leading the NFL in receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,809) in 2022, Jefferson reached the 1,000-yard mark for the fourth straight season in 2023 despite the hamstring injury. He started 17 games last season, notching 1,533 yards on 103 catches to go with 10 TD receptions.
Drafted in the first round (22nd overall) in 2020, Jefferson has 495 catches for 7,432 yards and 40 touchdowns in 77 career games (74 starts). His career average of 96.5 receiving yards per game is the highest in NFL history.
The Vikings open the season against the host Chicago Bears on Monday, Sept. 8.
–Field Level Media
