Justin Jefferson Tells Fantasy Football Managers He Won’t Rush Return From Injury
On Tuesday, Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson took to social media to address the flood of messages from fantasy football managers urging him to return to the field.
“I DONT CARE,” Jefferson wrote on Twitter, emphasizing that his health is more important than fantasy football wins. Jefferson has been sidelined on injured reserve since suffering a right hamstring injury in Week 5, and both he and Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell have made it clear that he will not return until he is fully healthy.
O’Connell stated on Monday that the team will continue to ramp up Jefferson’s recovery this week, but they may choose to keep him sidelined for their upcoming game against the Chicago Bears in order to take advantage of the upcoming bye week.
“We’re right at that six-week mark or so. He’s really attacked his rehab, and I think when that time comes, we’ll feel comfortable with Justin being out there,” O’Connell said. “I know Justin will as well. It’s one of those things that knowing you have the bye, and knowing there are five critical [games] to come after that bye, we do have to be smart.”
The Vikings opened Jefferson’s 21-day practice window on November 8, but the timing of their bye week could result in him being off the field for a total of eight weeks if he does not return until their December 10 game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
While the pressure to perform in the upcoming games is high, O’Connell emphasized that Jefferson’s long-term career with the team is the priority. “His long-term career here is the priority,” he stated. “This is a player that means a ton to our organization.”
As fantasy football managers continue to hope for Jefferson’s swift return, it is clear that the Vikings are prioritizing his health and long-term well-being over fantasy football wins.