Missing from practice during the week, we got an update on Jordan Addison’s injury status from Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell on Wednesday. O’Connell spoke after practice and informed the media that Addison will miss some time.
What Is the Latest on Jordan Addison?
Addison wasn’t in attendance at Wednesday’s practice session, and O’Connell later confirmed in his press conference that Addison had been placed in the concussion protocol.
“Jordan Addison, part of a two-minute drill the other day, just kind of making a catch going to the ground, just had some very, very light symptoms that we deemed it worthy.” O’Connell continued, “He’s currently in the protocol, working his way already through that right now and expecting to have him as early as potentially Monday.”
When asked for more clarity, O’Connell confirmed that Addison was in concussion protocol “Yes, the concussion protocol. It’s more out of an ultra-nature, just being aware of if he had any symptoms whatsoever, no reason to risk anything, give him the proper time to work his way through that protocol, and he’ll be back ASAP when the doctors clear him.”
The Vikings have been competing in joint practice sessions with the Tennessee Titans ahead of their second preseason game. With Addison’s earliest available return being Monday, he won’t be available to play.
Addison’s Eventful Offseason
Addison has had an eventful offseason since being drafted No. 23 overall by the Vikings. He had missed the start of Vikings training camp due to an undisclosed injury which he has now recovered from.
Then, Addison was cited by the Minnesota State Patrol after being caught speeding. Addison was driving at 140 mph on a 55 mph road leading to speculation over a potential suspension. But, as PFN NFL Analyst Dallas Robinson reported, it’s unlikely that Addison will need to serve a suspension from the NFL.
Addison flashed in Minnesota’s first preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks, with his official stat sheet showing that he caught one pass for 22 yards. However, that doesn’t tell the whole story, as Addison made an unbelievable catch that was ruled incomplete. Although it seems everyone but the officials thought it was a catch.
Superstar receiver Justin Jefferson has been impressed with the rookie receiver stating, “He’s definitely soaking it in, definitely asking questions. Just trying to be a student of the game. Like I said before, I want him to lean on me whenever he needs it. No matter if it’s football or off the field.”
Who Will Step Up in Addison’s Absence?
With Addison out for the Vikings’ second preseason game on Saturday, there will be plenty of opportunity for others to step up. Minnesota is likely to carry five receivers on their roster in 2023, so there will be opportunities for others to prove themselves.
The Vikings have added N’Keal Harry to provide more competition in the WR room. The former New England Patriots first-round pick has been impressive during practice, and he caught two passes for 24 yards in the opener against the Seahawks.
Another receiver in need of a redemption arch is Jalen Reagor. The Vikings declined Reagor’s fifth-year option back in May, and he needs to show progression going into the 2023 season.
Reagor caught four passes for 55 yards in the first preseason game. He failed to make an impression in his first year in Minnesota, and while it’s no sure thing that he makes the Vikings’ roster, if he continues to show out in preseason, then a job as a WR4/WR5 will be his.