JUSTIN JEFFERSON EXITS VIKINGS WIN WITH ANKLE INJURY

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson left Sunday's 23-16 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with an ankle injury sustained on the team's opening drive. Jefferson recorded two catches for 32 yards, including a 22-yard reception from quarterback Kyler Murray, who was making his return after clearing concussion protocol, before he was ruled out. He did not require assistance to leave the field but spent time in the medical tent and later appeared on the sideline with both ankles taped before going to the locker room. Head coach Kevin O'Connell said Jefferson tried to work through the injury and came close to returning on multiple occasions but was ultimately ruled out for the remainder of the game.

O'Connell told reporters after the game that Jefferson "was trying like crazy" to get back onto the field but could not regain the explosiveness his role requires. On Monday, O'Connell said the team had received encouraging news following further tests, describing the injury as an ankle sprain and stating that it had avoided anything long-term. Minnesota had not confirmed a specific diagnosis in the immediate aftermath of the game, though Fantasy Points injury analyst Jeff Mueller suggested it was likely a mild deltoid ligament sprain. In Jefferson's absence, Jordan Addison took on a larger role, finishing with five catches for 90 yards and a touchdown.

The Vikings improved to 3-0 for the season with the victory. O'Connell said Jefferson's recovery would be assessed throughout the week, with the coaching staff monitoring swelling and how much he can train before determining his availability. Minnesota hosts the New York Jets in Week 4, with the team's first injury report of the week due on Wednesday.