Aaron Jones

Just days removed from saying that he will “be back out there” for Week 10 against the Ravens, veteran running back Aaron Jones sat out of Wednesday’s Vikings practice.

Jones provided some much-needed offense against the Detroit Lions in Week 9, accumulating 98 yards from scrimmage before departing early in the third quarter. Initially ruled a “shoulder injury,” it was determined to be an AC joint sprain. While Jones tried to lay to rest the notion of missing the home game against Baltimore, it’s worth noting that his comments came right after the game. Presumably, soreness crept in later, causing him to miss the team’s first full practice on Wednesday. Jones will need to practice in full by Friday to avoid an injury designation.

Fantasy lowdown: Jones is listed as questionable for the game, and the possibility of him being ready has been met with skepticism. If he can go, managers should not hesitate to fire him up against the Ravens’ 13th-ranked rush defense (fourth in running back touchdowns allowed). Likewise, if Jones misses the game, Jordan Mason is a must-start as an RB2 with upside as long as the game doesn’t get out of hand.

Author: Samwise (@BuyAndSellYou)

The Minnesota Vikings have placed Aaron Jones on the Injured Reserve with a hamstring injury. Jones was injured in the Week 2 game against the Atlanta Falcons and will now be out until at least Week 7.

This news means Jordan Mason will be the unquestioned starter for the Vikings in Jones’ absence. Mason has been the leading rusher for the Vikings through two weeks with 24 carries totalling 98 yards. With Jones landing on the Injured Reserve, the team has signed Cam Akers to the practice squad, and he could be elevated to the 53-man roster for the game against the Bengals. The Vikings’ offense has quickly become depleted with quarterback J.J. McCarthy nursing a high ankle sprain, Jordan Addison still serving his three-game suspension, and a banged-up offensive line.

Author: Dane Madoche(@FF_DaMaddog)

Weeks ago, Minnesota acquired Mason and a 2025 sixth-round pick from the San Francisco 49ers for a 2025 sixth-round pick and a 2026 sixth-round pick. Since then, fans and analysts alike have attempted to project what kind of workload Mason will receive in the upcoming season. O’Connell’s comments from the NFL’s 2025 League Meetings confirmed what some assumed.

“I do think Jordan’s gonna bring something to the table in those short-yardage situations, those goal-line situations, goal-to-go, where we’ve really left a lot to be desired as a football team,” O’Connell said.

Most teams in the modern NFL opt to rotate through multiple running backs during games, and the Vikings are no different. Mason’s skillset will (ideally) complement what veteran tailback Aaron Jones brings to the table as they share opportunities. Jones made a name for himself as an explosive runner and reliable receiver in his seven seasons with the Green Bay Packers, continuing to add to his resume last year with the Minnesota Vikings. He remains an effective player, but now that Jones is in his 30s, he’s no longer viewed as a workhorse option. Instead, and as his head coach alluded to, Minnesota hopes to preserve Jones in the final years of his career by lightening his workload. We can safely assume he’ll continue to be their featured back in passing situations, but Mason will get plenty of early down and short yardage work.

Mason set career-highs across the board last season in relief of Christian McCaffrey, totaling 880 yards from scrimmage while averaging 5.4 yards per touch. Mason’s durability issues loom, but when active he’s proven to be an efficient runner. He signed a new contract with the Vikings post-trade and now has two seasons to prove his worth to his new team.

Author: Trey Kroll (@TreyK_FB)

The Vikings found a gem when they handed the running back reigns to 2022 5th round pick running back Ty Chandler late last season. Chandler was able to provide the run game with an explosive spark that it largely lacked outside of his performance.  Fantasy managers were excited about the budding breakout candidate with a full workload going into 2024, but those hopes were quieted with the signing of former division rival Aaron Jones, presumably to be the lead back.  Local reporters observing camp thus far along with ESPN’s Dan Graziano’s conversations within the organization allude to a 1a/1b platoon type approach to open the 2024 season.  Chandler rushed for 33 yards on 7 carries yesterday while the 29 year old Jones rested.

Ty Chandler and Aaron Jones possess similar skillsets with Jones likely being the better pass catcher.  Jones figures to get the first carry on opening day, but it appears that Chandler will have a significant role and earn touches as well.  Jones is currently an early 5th round pick around pick 65 in redraft, with Chandler being available much later in drafts in round 11 around pick 141.  Based on the reports with usage, Chandler could be an excellent value, and would be a high end rb2 if Jones misses time.

After a surprising release and departure from the Green Bay Packers, Aaron Jones is set to bring his talents, along with his trademark sombrero, across the border from Wisconsin to Minnesota. The Vikings have secured Jones as their new lead running back. Despite being 29 years old, Jones has proven he’s still brimming with explosive energy, particularly showcased in a stellar performance during the wildcard round against the Cowboys.

If Jones can maintain his health, there’s no doubt he has the potential to remain among the top 10 running backs in the league. Mark your calendars, especially for the Vikings’ matchups against the Packers this year, as there’s a strong anticipation that Aaron Jones will have those dates firmly circled on his schedule as well.