The Minnesota Vikings will not activate star wide receiver Justin Jefferson for Monday night’s game against the Chicago Bears, opting instead for another week of rest, NFL Network and the Star Tribune reported.
Reports from Sunday said it was unlikely Jefferson would play.
Jefferson and the Vikings are exercising caution to guard against re-injury with the benefit of almost two weeks before Minnesota next would play a game: Dec. 10 at the Las Vegas Raiders. The Vikings enter their bye week starting Tuesday, allowing extra cushion for any decision on the status of Jefferson, who remains in the 21-day window to return to the active roster from injured reserve.
Jefferson returned to practice Nov. 8 but has been limited, primarily participating in position drills and running some routes at less than full speed. He said he would make the final call on his status each week, then was inactive for the Vikings’ 21-20 loss to the Denver Broncos in Week 11.
Jefferson, 24, was injured in the Vikings’ Week 5 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. He has 36 catches for 571 yards and three touchdowns this season.
He was a first-team All-Pro last season when he led the NFL with 128 catches and 1,809 yards.
–Field Level Media