Vikings-Chargers Injury Update: What We Know So Far

The Minnesota Vikings have received a major boost ahead of their Thursday night matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, as running back Aaron Jones has been activated from injured reserve. The veteran star returns after missing four straight games due to a hamstring injury suffered in Week 2. However, the Vikings will still have to monitor other key names — including offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw — who remains questionable with knee soreness.

The update arrives just hours before kickoff, with both teams battling multiple lineup concerns. Minnesota, sitting at 3-3, aims to rebound from its recent loss, while Los Angeles (4-3) looks to steady its offense after a turnover-filled stretch.

Aaron Jones

Full Vikings-Chargers Injury Update and Key Details

Running back Aaron Jones’ activation was confirmed on October 23, just before the Vikings traveled to Los Angeles. Jones had been sidelined since mid-September but returned to full-speed practice this week. According to team officials, his recovery has progressed well, and he is expected to play on a limited snap count as he regains full conditioning.

Jones’ return reshapes Minnesota’s offensive game plan. Without him, the team averaged under 105 rushing yards per game — among the lowest in the NFC. Backup Jordan Mason handled most of the workload, but Jones’ explosiveness in both running and receiving situations is expected to provide a much-needed spark. He was initially listed as “questionable” but cleared to play after Thursday morning walkthroughs.

Meanwhile, offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw continues to deal with swelling in his surgically repaired knee. Head coach Kevin O’Connell described his status as a “game-time decision.” Right tackle Brian O’Neill (knee) and quarterback J.J. McCarthy (ankle) are also on the injury list, creating uncertainty on the offensive front. Rookie running back Zavier Scott (wrist) remains limited as well.

For the Chargers, key injuries persist on both sides of the ball. Rookie offensive tackle Joe Alt (ankle) and running back Hassan Haskins (hamstring) are questionable, while edge rusher Khalil Mack is reportedly out for at least a week due to a dislocated elbow. These setbacks could test Los Angeles’ depth in pass protection and edge containment.

According to reports from NFL Network and CBS Sports, the Vikings made a corresponding roster move to activate Jones, releasing rookie linebacker Kobe King to create space. The team emphasized that Jones’ workload would be “monitored carefully,” with Jordan Mason expected to share touches early.

The Vikings-Chargers injury picture paints a clear contrast — Minnesota regains its offensive leader, while Los Angeles faces lingering absences. Jones’ availability immediately boosts Minnesota’s run-pass balance and helps quarterback Carson Wentz operate with more flexibility. If Darrisaw plays, the offensive line could stabilize, giving Wentz better protection against a strong Chargers front.

However, health remains a balancing act. The Vikings’ recent injury wave has tested their depth, while the Chargers’ secondary continues to rotate due to midseason fatigue. Both coaching staffs are expected to rely on short passing and quick-tempo plays to minimize risk for their recovering players.

In summary: Aaron Jones’ return headlines the Vikings-Chargers injury update, offering Minnesota a timely lift. Yet, Darrisaw’s uncertainty and the Chargers’ mounting absences suggest both teams enter Thursday night with limited room for error.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Aaron Jones playing tonight for the Vikings?

Yes. Aaron Jones has been activated from injured reserve and is expected to play in a limited capacity against the Chargers.

Q2: What is Christian Darrisaw’s current status?

Darrisaw is questionable with knee soreness and will be a game-time decision according to head coach Kevin O’Connell.

Q3: Which Chargers players are injured for Week 8?

Joe Alt (ankle) and Hassan Haskins (hamstring) are questionable, while Khalil Mack is out with an elbow injury.

Q4: How will Aaron Jones’ return affect the Vikings’ offense?

His return adds versatility and balance to the offense, especially in short-yardage and red-zone situations.

Q5: Could Minnesota limit Aaron Jones’ workload?

Yes. Reports suggest he’ll be eased back into action to avoid re-aggravating his hamstring injury.