There’s a Jordan Addison Update
It has been a remarkable season for the Minnesota Vikings, at least through three games. Quarterback Sam Darnold has been nearly flawless, looking comfortable on schedule but also allowing himself to be creative and make plays with his legs. He manages to get his weapons involved but surely would like to get Jordan Addison back on the field.
There’s a Jordan Addison Update
Sophomore receiver Addison suffered an ankle injury in Week 1 against the New York Giants when a defender used the hip-drop tackle, something the league tries to outlaw because of the injury risk.
Addison missed the two games against the Super Bowl contender 49ers and Texans, but the Vikings still won both contests at home. The offense has been efficient, but folks wonder how good it could be at full strength.
That full strength could be nearing with T.J. Hockenson eligible to return in Week 5, although there’s no indication that he would be ready for that game in London. A comeback shortly after the bye week seems more realistic.
But Addison might be back on Sunday when the Vikings play their first division game in Lambeau Field.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport tweeted Wednesday, a few days before Packers versus Vikings: “Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell tells reporters that WR Jordan Addison (ankle) will practice in (likely limited) capacity today, and he is hopeful he can play Sunday.”
During his two-game absence, it was Jalen Nailor stepping up into the wingman role next to Justin Jefferson, and he has been a wonderful contributor, scoring in each of the team’s first three games of the season. He caught a total of seven passes for 106 yards.
In his rookie year, Nailor was stuck on the depth chart behind Jefferson and his supporting cast of Adam Thielen and K.J. Osborn while injuries derailed his sophomore campaign. Year three turns out to be his breakout season, at least if he can keep his production up.
Addison, meanwhile, had a marvelous debut season, scoring ten times and gaining 911 yards on 70 catches. When Jefferson had to sit out a significant stretch of the season, he stepped into the WR1 role and did quite well despite the shaky quarterback play.
Still, there are many things to learn on and off the field. After his speeding ticket in the 2023 offseason, he promised growth. A second driving-related issue in July of 2024 raised some serious concerns. The court hearing for his alleged DUI is scheduled for October 7th. A conviction will likely cost him some more games, either later this season or early in 2025.
Addison’s return in Week 4 would be vital for the passing attack, as the Packers have a history of taking Jefferson out of games by fully committing to it. That would lead to opportunities for other players, and the dynamic sophomore could take advantage of that over-focus.
Sunday’s game would be his second in Lambeau Field. Last year, he scored and added 82 receiving yards and seven catches to his resume.
He logged an estimated limited practice in Wednesday’s walkthrough practice. His status will be updated on Thursday and Friday.
Editor’s Note: Information from Pro Football Reference helped with this article.
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Janik Eckardt is a football fan who likes numbers and stats. The Vikings became his favorite team despite their quarterback at the time, Christian Ponder. He is a walking soccer encyclopedia, loves watching sitcoms, and prefers Classic rock over other genres. Follow him on Twitter if you like the Vikings: @JanikEckardt