It has nothing to do with his contract negotiations, and Justin Jefferson isn’t doing it on purpose to frustrate fantasy football managers who selected him this season. According to the Minnesota Vikings wide receiver, the only reason he has been out for six games is a strained right hamstring that has yet to heal completely.
Jefferson’s participation in Monday night’s game against the Chicago Bears remains uncertain as he enters the third week of practice since the Vikings granted him permission to return from injured reserve. He expressed his disappointment and acknowledged the difficulties of maintaining patience and ensuring a proper healing process for his injury, empathizing with the many fans who have reached out to him on social media.
Jefferson is frustrated by the prospect of missing his seventh game, but he understands the importance of prioritizing his health. Despite the fact that his recovery has progressed to the point where he can run some practice routes at full speed, he is still hesitant to commit to Monday night’s game, stating that the decision will be based on further evaluation and how well he feels.
After suffering a hamstring injury on October 8, the Vikings placed him on injured reserve two days later. Jefferson must be activated by November 29, or he will be placed on injured reserve for the rest of the season, according to a 21-day practice window that began on November 8. Jefferson and the team agreed on a methodical approach, with the goal of bringing him back only when he is fully recovered.
Coach Kevin O’Connell acknowledged that Jefferson could miss Monday’s game, possibly using the Week 13 bye for additional rest before returning in Week 14 against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Fans have grown increasingly impatient, despite the agreed-upon recovery plan. Earlier this week, Jefferson stated on social media that his health comes first, followed by fantasy football. He expressed frustration with the criticism he’s received, pointing out that everyone’s healing timeline is different.
Recognizing the intensity of the social media backlash, Jefferson admitted to being tired of the situation and emphasized his desire to return to the field. In response to speculation that his delayed return is due to a contract dispute with the Vikings, Jefferson stated that it has nothing to do with his contract negotiations and that he remains committed to returning at full strength. He appeared to withdraw from social media in response to the backlash, making both his X and Instagram accounts inaccessible as of Friday afternoon. Despite the speculations and criticisms, Jefferson stood firm, declaring, “I know my position. I know exactly what I’m doing. And I know it’s not for the sake of the contract. It has nothing to do with the contract.”
