Aaron Jones Injury Update: Vikings Star Designated to Return, Could Face Chargers on Thursday

The Minnesota Vikings have officially designated running back Aaron Jones to return from injured reserve, signaling that the veteran may be back on the field soon. NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero reported that Jones could be active this Thursday against the Los Angeles Chargers, marking his first game since Week 2.

Jones has been sidelined for over a month due to a hamstring injury suffered during a 22-6 loss to the Atlanta Falcons. His return comes as the Vikings prepare for a pivotal primetime matchup that could define their midseason momentum.

Jones Nears Comeback After Hamstring Injury

The move to activate Aaron Jones opens his 21-day practice window, giving Minnesota flexibility to evaluate his recovery before deciding on his official return. According to reports from league insiders, Jones has been making steady progress during rehab and is expected to be evaluated daily before Thursday night’s game.

Before the injury, Jones recorded 46 rushing yards on 13 carries across two games. He also caught three passes for 44 yards, including a crucial 27-yard touchdown against the Chicago Bears in Week 1. His early-season numbers were modest, but his efficiency and leadership have been missed in the Vikings’ offense.

The 30-year-old joined Minnesota ahead of the 2024 season after a seven-year run with the Green Bay Packers. He quickly became an offensive centerpiece, rushing for a career-best 1,138 yards last season. In the offseason, Jones signed a two-year, $20 million extension that keeps him under contract through 2026.

While Jones has been out, Jordan Mason has carried the load for the Vikings’ backfield. Mason has impressed with 380 rushing yards and four touchdowns through six games, including a breakout 116-yard performance in Week 3 against the Cincinnati Bengals. Still, Jones’ vision and experience bring an added dimension the team has lacked.

What Jones’ Return Means for the Vikings’ Offense

The Vikings enter Week 8 at 3-3, having alternated wins and losses since the start of the season. The team has also been without rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy since mid-September, leaving the offense in need of stability. Getting Jones back could ease pressure on the passing game and restore balance to Kevin O’Connell’s system.

With the Chargers’ defense ranking near the bottom of the league against the run, Jones’ return could immediately shift Minnesota’s offensive strategy. His dual-threat ability as both a rusher and receiver could help the Vikings exploit mismatches on short-yardage and red-zone plays.

If cleared to play, Aaron Jones would bring veteran leadership, versatility, and explosive potential just when the Vikings need it most. His return could be the key to reigniting Minnesota’s playoff push in the NFC North.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When will Aaron Jones return from injury?

Jones could return this Thursday against the Los Angeles Chargers, pending final clearance from the Vikings’ medical staff.

Q2: What injury has Aaron Jones been dealing with?

He suffered a hamstring injury in Week 2 against the Atlanta Falcons, which led to his placement on injured reserve.

Q3: Who replaced Aaron Jones during his absence?

Jordan Mason has filled in as the primary running back, totaling 380 yards and four touchdowns in six games.

Q4: How important is Jones’ return for Minnesota?

His return could significantly strengthen the offense, providing veteran stability and improving the team’s running efficiency.

Q5: What contract is Aaron Jones currently playing under?

Jones signed a two-year, $20 million extension with the Vikings earlier this offseason, keeping him with the team through 2026.