The Minnesota Vikings updated the media on the injury status of a couple of key players during the team's Monday media session.
Minnesota Vikings fans are eager for the return of star wide receiver Justin Jefferson and it is starting to sound like there is a chance he could be back for the team's Monday Night Football matchup against the Chicago Bears in Week 12.
Sadly, there was some bad news on the injury front that came from Week 11. An update on the status of defensive lineman Dean Lowry will have an impact on the rest of the season. On a team already missing several important pieces, another injured starter is not good at all.
Updates on Justin Jefferson, Dean Lowry, and Chris Reed were provided by Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell during the team's Monday media session.
Minnesota Vikings injury updates
Justin Jefferson
While it wouldn't be surprising if the Minnesota Vikings held Justin Jefferson out of Week 12 to allow him more time to be ready for his return through the team's bye week, O'Connell recently shared that Jefferson is questionable to play against the Bears on Monday Night Football.
ESPN's Kevin Seifert shared O'Connell's update on Jefferson in a post on X (formerly Twitter) that explained Minnesota's options:
Kevin O'Connell termed WR Justin Jefferson as "questionable" for next Monday's game vs. Bears. He also acknowledged "we do have to be smart" about bringing him back, knowing the Vikings have their bye the following week and could get add a "free" week to his 21-day window.
— Kevin Seifert (@SeifertESPN) November 20, 2023
Dean Lowry and Chris Reed
Starting defensive lineman Dean Lowry will be placed on injured reserve following a torn pectoral muscle. His roster spot will go to offensive guard Chris Reed, who is returning from a foot injury that kept him out of action.
Here is the post on X (formerly Twitter) from the official account of the Minnesota Vikings announcing the injury and expected corresponding moves:
Head Coach Kevin O’Connell has announced DL Dean Lowry suffered a pectoral tear and will go on IR. G Chris Reed will be activated to the 53-man roster.
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) November 20, 2023
Hopefully, Dean Lowry can have a full and speedy recovery. Welcome back, Chris Reed. And be sure to keep an eye on the status of Justin Jefferson heading into Monday Night Football against the Bears in Week 12.