Running back Aaron Jones's play has been a big reason for the Minnesota Vikings' success this season. The former Packers rusher is a great asset out of the backfield as a runner and receiver and will be important if the Vikings hope to continue their winning ways.
One big question surrounding Jones has been his durability. Jones has an extensive injury history and many fans and experts were concerned about his ability to play the entire season in Minnesota considering the wear and tear on his body.
Vikings provide encouraging update about Aaron Jones injury
Aaron Jones suffered a hip injury against the New York Jets in Week 5 that forced him to exit the game and not return. In the 23-17 victory, backup running back Ty Chandler wasn't effective on the ground, rushing 14 times for 30 yards on the day.
On Tuesday, Star Tribune Vikings writer Andrew Krammer shared on X that Jones' hip injury isn't a long-term ailment and Minnesota head coach Kevin O'Connell described his availability as week-to-week.
Running back Aaron Jones "continues to be evaluated, but all the early information we've got so far. It looks like we've avoided a long-term injury. I'd classify him week to week at this point," Kevin O'Connell said.
— Andrew Krammer (@Andrew_Krammer) October 8, 2024
The Vikings have a bye in Week 6 before they host the Detroit Lions at U.S. Bank Stadium in Week 7. This divisional matchup will be a huge test for Minnesota. With a healthy Aaron Jones in their backfield, the purple and gold would have a much better chance of winning.
If Jones is unable to play against Detroit, his next opportunity to return to action would be on the road against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 8. But hopefully, the dual-threat running back will be back in the lineup before then.
Jones is off to a solid start for the Minnesota Vikings this season. Through five games, he has 71 rushing attempts for 350 yards and a touchdown while adding nine catches for 22 yards in the passing game.
Even with leaving the game against the Jets early, Aaron Jones is 11th in the NFL in rushing yards. He has also picked up 18 first downs on the ground without fumbling as a rusher in Kevin O'Connell's offense.
Although Ty Chandler and Myles Gaskin are both on the roster, neither offers the upside that Aaron Jones provides at running back. If the Minnesota Vikings hope to protect their undefeated record after the bye week, they will want to have jones healthy and available in the backfield as soon as possible.