Possible Return for Justin Jefferson in Upcoming Vikings vs. Bears Showdown!

Minnesota Vikings Eyeing Season Sweep as They Clash with Chicago Bears

The Minnesota Vikings are gearing up for a divisional rematch against the Chicago Bears on Monday night in Minneapolis. Having secured a 19-13 victory in Week 6, the Vikings aim for a season sweep against their rivals. However, a recent setback came in the form of a 21-20 loss to the Denver Broncos, halting their five-game winning streak. Now facing the pivotal decision of whether to bring back star wideout Justin Jefferson from a hamstring injury or play it safe and rest him for this week and the upcoming bye, Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell weighs his options.

The Athletic reported on Thursday that Jefferson is unlikely to play, maintaining the cautious approach to ensure his full recovery. The 24-year-old receiver had an impressive start to the season with 36 catches, 571 yards, and three touchdowns in the first five games before his injury. Coach O’Connell emphasized the team’s commitment to Jefferson’s well-being, stating, “We’re not going to allow any other outside circumstances or even the circumstances of our team to drive that situation in any way, shape, or form.”

On the other side, the Chicago Bears, with a 3-8 record, face their own set of challenges and decisions. Positioned for high draft picks, they must determine if Justin Fields is their long-term quarterback solution or if they should explore top prospects. Fields, despite a dislocated right thumb in his last encounter with the Vikings, has shown promise with 62.7% completion, 1,370 yards, 12 touchdowns, and six interceptions in seven games.

Both teams grapple with injuries, with key players on the report. Bears running back D’Onta Foreman, center Lucas Patrick, guard Larry Borom, and linebacker Noah Sewell missed Thursday’s practice. Meanwhile, the Vikings had limited participation from Jefferson, tight end T.J. Hockenson, and cornerback Akayleb Evans.

Vikings quarterback Joshua Dobbs, traded from the Arizona Cardinals on Oct. 31, has been effective, passing for 647 yards, four touchdowns, and rushing for 131 yards and three touchdowns in three games. The clash promises to be intense, with both teams striving for a crucial win, and Bears wide receiver D.J. Moore seeks to achieve a milestone of 1,000 receiving yards for his fourth career season.