On November 21, 2023, at 12:08 PM ET, Justin Jefferson addressed the requests from fantasy football managers for him to return to the field before he is fully healthy. The Minnesota Vikings’ star wide receiver emphasized the importance of his health over fantasy football wins. He stated that he would not be influenced by the requests flooding his direct messages and that his health is his top priority.
Jefferson sustained a right hamstring injury in Week 5 and has been on injured reserve since then. He and Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell have made it clear that he will not return until he has fully recovered. The team is taking a cautious approach to his recovery and has mentioned the possibility of keeping him sidelined for an upcoming game to take advantage of the bye week that follows.
The Vikings have opened a 21-day practice window for Jefferson, but with their bye week approaching, it could result in an eight-week absence if he does not come back until their game on December 10. O’Connell emphasized the importance of Jefferson’s long-term health and expressed the team’s commitment to ensuring he is ready to return to the field.
ESPN’s Kevin Seifert contributed to the report, providing additional insight into Jefferson’s recovery process and the team’s approach to managing his return.