Vikings RB Aaron Jones Placed on Injured Reserve With Hamstring Injury

The Minnesota Vikings have placed starting running back Aaron Jones on injured reserve. The move comes after Jones suffered a hamstring injury in Sunday’s 24-14 loss to the Atlanta Falcons. He will now miss a minimum of four games. The update was confirmed by NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.

Jones was ruled out early in the game. His absence leaves a big hole in the Vikings’ rushing attack. At 30 years old, he had signed a one-year, $7 million contract in the offseason to anchor Minnesota’s backfield.

Jordan Mason Takes Over as RB1 After Jones’ Injury

Jordan Mason will now take over as the starting running back. Mason led the team with 30 yards on 15 carries against the Falcons. ESPN’s Adam Schefter also reported that Minnesota is planning to re-sign veteran Cam Akers for added depth.

Jones had a slow start to the season. He carried the ball eight times for 23 yards in the season opener against the New York Giants. Losing him so early is a setback for head coach Kevin O’Connell’s run-first system. The offense now turns to Mason, who logged 68 rushing yards in Week 2. He is expected to see 15–20 touches per game.

Mason, acquired in a trade from the San Francisco 49ers, offers power and consistency. Akers, who has past experience with Minnesota, could provide a change of pace. Ty Chandler and rookie Zavier Scott will remain depth options.

Fantasy Football Impact and Vikings’ Backfield Outlook

The injury also carries big fantasy football implications. Mason becomes the clear RB1 and should be treated as a strong RB2 or flex play. His workload and potential goal-line role boost his value, especially in matchups like the upcoming game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Akers, once he is officially signed, could become a high-value handcuff. He has career totals of 1,301 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. He averaged 4.2 yards per carry in limited preseason snaps earlier this year. Fantasy managers should keep him on the radar as a depth pickup.

The Vikings must now adjust their offensive plans. Jones’ injury shortens their backfield rotation and puts more pressure on the passing game. Mason has shown flashes but will need to prove he can handle full-time duties. Akers’ return could help spread the workload and reduce risk of overuse.

Aaron Jones’ injury is a major blow to the Vikings’ season. Jordan Mason now leads the rushing attack, while Cam Akers could play a key supporting role. Minnesota’s playoff hopes may hinge on how well the backfield adapts in Jones’ absence.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How long will Aaron Jones be out?

Aaron Jones has been placed on injured reserve. He will miss at least four games due to a hamstring injury.

Q2: Who replaces Aaron Jones as starting RB?

Jordan Mason becomes the RB1 for the Vikings. He will see the bulk of the carries in upcoming games.

Q3: Is Cam Akers returning to Minnesota?

Yes, reports say the Vikings plan to re-sign Cam Akers. He will provide depth behind Jordan Mason.

Q4: What is Jordan Mason’s fantasy football value?

Mason is a strong RB2 or flex option. His role as a workhorse gives him RB1 upside in good matchups.

Q5: How does this affect the Vikings’ season?

The injury is a setback for Minnesota’s ground game. Success now depends on Mason’s ability to carry the load.