Why Jordan Addison Didn’t Play in the First Quarter Against the Browns in London

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison was unexpectedly absent for the entire first quarter of Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Browns in London. Addison was not injured — his absence was due to a “coach’s decision,” according to ESPN reporter Kevin Seifert.

The decision surprised fans and viewers, especially because the Vikings entered the game needing offensive firepower. Addison, a former first-round pick, returned to action on Minnesota’s first drive of the second quarter.

Coach’s Decision Behind Jordan Addison’s First-Quarter Bench

The Vikings have not provided an official explanation for why Addison was benched early. Head coach Kevin O’Connell did not address the situation before kickoff, and NFL Network’s broadcast offered no clarification during the first quarter. Sideline reporter Sara Walsh reportedly did not ask O’Connell about it during her brief interview after the quarter ended.

Historically, when a player is sidelined for non-injury reasons, it is often due to a disciplinary matter — such as missing a meeting, violating team rules, or conduct issues during the week. However, no specific reason has been confirmed. O’Connell is expected to be asked about the decision in his postgame comments.

Addison’s track record includes previous off-the-field issues. In July 2023, he was cited for driving 140 mph in Minnesota. A year later, he was arrested on suspicion of DUI and later pled guilty to lesser charges. The NFL suspended him for the first three games of the 2025 season. Sunday’s benching sparked speculation that it could be another disciplinary measure, though nothing official has been stated.

Impact on the Vikings’ Offense and Fan Reaction

Addison entered the London game with 1,900 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns over 33 career games. His absence in the first quarter meant Minnesota leaned more heavily on Justin Jefferson and tight end T.J. Hockenson to move the ball early.

Fans voiced confusion on social media as the first quarter progressed, questioning why one of the team’s top playmakers was not on the field. Many assumed an injury until ESPN reported the benching was a coach’s decision. Without Addison, the Vikings’ passing game looked limited early but rebounded once he returned in the second quarter.

For now, the exact reason behind Jordan Addison’s first-quarter benching remains undisclosed. Kevin O’Connell is likely to address the matter publicly after the game, but the decision has already sparked strong discussion among fans and analysts.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why didn’t Jordan Addison play in the first quarter?

He was benched for a “coach’s decision,” according to ESPN. The Vikings have not shared the specific reason yet.

Q2: Was Jordan Addison injured against the Browns?

No. Reports confirm Addison was healthy. His absence was not injury-related.

Q3: Has Jordan Addison faced team discipline before?

Yes. He was suspended earlier this season after a DUI arrest in 2024 and had a speeding citation in 2023.

Q4: Did Kevin O’Connell explain the decision before halftime?

No. The broadcast reported that O’Connell was not asked about the benching during the first quarter.

Q5: How did the Vikings’ offense perform without Addison early?

The unit started slower and leaned on Justin Jefferson and T.J. Hockenson until Addison returned in the second quarter.