Minnesota Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell revealed that standout wide receiver Justin Jefferson sustained a mild hamstring strain during Vikings training camp which kept him out of practice. The team will reassess the injury next week, casting doubt on his availability for training camp and potentially games this preseason. 

This Justin Jefferson injury update has potential fantasy football owners scrambling to make adjustments to their fantasy football draft strategies as a prolonged injury could see his fantasy football ADP drop as we get closer to Week 1 of the regular season.

 

Effects of the Justin Jefferson Injury

The Justin Jefferson injury is a significant blow to fantasy football owners who have viewed the All-Pro wideout as a cornerstone of their potential rosters. Jefferson, a consistent WR1, has been a force to be reckoned with, averaging over 100 receiving yards per game in recent seasons. That he is absent from practice is a sign of caution on the Vikings' part in prioritizing his long-term health over pushing him to return. Fantasy owners must monitor the situation closely, as a prolonged Jefferson injury would change the team's offense and his fantasy production.

With Jefferson out, the Vikings' wide receiver depth chart will be put to the test. Jordan Addison, the WR2, is the most likely to pick up the slack. Addison, in his second year, has flashed brilliance and may have a bigger target share if Jefferson is out. Jalen Nailor, who is charted as the WR3, could also get more opportunities, although his role is less clear. Fantasy owners should look to target Addison, despite his looming suspension, particularly in deeper formats, and monitor Nailor as a late round speculative target.

 

Justin Jefferson Injury History

The Justin Jefferson injury echoes his 2023 high-grade hamstring strain, which required 8-10 weeks of recovery. A 2024 quad injury was less severe, allowing a quick return, which bodes well for this mild strain. Hamstring injuries, however, lead the NFL in games missed, so the Vikings’ cautious approach is prudent. The current Justin Jefferson injury, a Grade I strain, typically requires 1-2 weeks of recovery. O’Connell remains optimistic, and the team’s cautious approach suggests Jefferson will be ready for Week 1, pending next week’s re-evaluation.

 

Minnesota Vikings Depth Chart

Here's a glance at the Vikings' wide receiver depth chart as it stands:

There is a clear drop-off in proven talent behind Jefferson and Addison. Tai Felton and Thayer Thomas are unproven commodities, making Addison the primary beneficiary of any extended absence. Tight end T.J. Hockenson could also see more targets, though his role in the passing game may be dependent on his own return to health from a previous injury.

 

Justin Jefferson Fantasy Football Outlook

Justin Jefferson remains the consensus WR1 in fantasy football, often drafted in the top 3-5 picks in PPR leagues. His 2022 season (1,809 yards, eight touchdowns) and 2023 performance (1,000 yards in 10 games) highlight his elite ceiling. Despite the Justin Jefferson injury, his role in Kevin O’Connell’s pass-heavy offense with quarterback J.J. McCarthy keeps him a must-draft player. Fantasy managers should monitor updates but expect Jefferson to maintain his WR1 status.