Minnesota Vikings star wideout Justin Jefferson has been one of the best offensive players in the NFL since entering the league in 2020. The former LSU Tiger has posted 360 receptions, 5,396 yards, and 28 touchdowns through just 55 games played.
Unfortunately, the 24-year-old was banged up earlier this season, causing him to miss the first game of his pro career. Fantasy managers are surely wondering when the All-Pro is expected to return.
When is Jefferson coming back to action? What is his fantasy football outlook when he returns? Let's dive in.
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Justin Jefferson Latest Injury Update - November 15
Justin Jefferson (hamstring) did not play against the New Orleans Saints in Week 10. The All-Pro was eligible to return for that contest and has already been designated to return from Injured Reserve, but the Vikings decided to play it safe. Further information about his return date should be available this week.
Justin Jefferson Injury Update for Fantasy Football
Jefferson (hamstring) originally suffered a hamstring injury in the Week 5 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. He exited the game in the fourth quarter and did not return. Just a few days later, he was placed on Injured Reserve, meaning he'd have to sit out at least four games.
According to ESPN, the Vikings will test his hamstring when he is eligible to return ahead of the Week 10 game against the New Orleans Saints. However, the injury was originally viewed as a four-to-six-week recovery, so he could be out until after the team's bye in Week 13.
Minnesota is unlikely to take any chances with its franchise-changing receiver, so this is a situation worth monitoring.
Justin Jefferson Fantasy Football Outlook
Needless to say, Jefferson will immediately be a must-start when he returns to action. Even if he's not 100% healthy, he should have WR1 upside. He has produced WR1 numbers in each of his first three seasons and has never produced fewer than 1,400 receiving yards in a single campaign.
While he's out, Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson appear to be the top target earners in Kirk Cousins' offense. K.J. Osborn has deep league appeal, but he looks to be third on the totem pole among Vikings' pass-catchers.
Jefferson's fantasy managers will have to try to survive in his absence. When he returns, he could lead your team to a fantasy championship.
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