Jordan Addison’s legal troubles are finally behind him. After his DUI case was resolved in July, the NFL had everything it needed to decide whether Addison would face disciplinary action when the 2025 season began, and the league made its decision. How many games will the Minnesota Vikings wide receiver miss during the 2025 season?
How Long Will Jordan Addison Be Suspended?
On July 17, Addison pleaded guilty to a lesser offense, referred to by his attorney as “wet reckless.” That is legal slang for reckless driving while alcohol is involved. He paid a fine and is required to complete two online courses, expecting his probation to be terminated after six months.
This decision followed Addison’s voluntary participation in MADD events and programs, according to his attorney, as he recognized the seriousness of his actions. The NFL ultimately decided to suspend Addison for the first three games of the 2025 season for violating the league’s policy against substances of abuse. He will miss the games against the Chicago Bears, Atlanta Falcons, and Cincinnati Bengals.
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Demarcus Robinson was also suspended for three games for a similar situation. The CBA spells out that players will be suspended three games for a DUI.
The league has a history of enforcing disciplinary actions even after cases are resolved in civil rather than criminal court.
Addison has been a key contributor for the Vikings and plays a major role as Justin Jefferson’s complementary wideout. He had a strong 2024 campaign that included 875 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns over 15 games.
Jordan Addison.
My goodness.
📺: @NFLonFOX pic.twitter.com/aM1msezXyx
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) December 29, 2024
Addison’s absence is a significant setback for quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who’s set to start for the Vikings in his first real NFL action.
With Addison set to miss the first three games of the season, Minnesota acquired Adam Thielen in a trade with the Carolina Panthers. Thielen, who spent nine seasons in Minnesota before signing with the Panthers, is an experienced two-time Pro Bowler who will be a valuable weapon for McCarthy while Addison is out.
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Moreover, once Addison is back from his suspension, the Vikings will have one of the better wide receiver rooms in the league. The franchise is doing everything possible to make things easier for McCarthy, and now it’s up to the quarterback to make the most of it.
Addison’s Fantasy Outlook
Addison is suspended for the first three games this season (at CHI, vs. ATL, and vs. CIN) due to violating the league’s substance abuse policy.
He’s still an appealing option to hold, but he is a significant regression candidate (TD on 8.2% of his career targets) and is missing out on a favorable run to open the season.
On the bright side, it’s doubtful that a receiver will step up in his absence in a way that will impact his season-long projection.
You’re looking at a player who could be volatile every week, but as a featured option in a Kevin O’Connell offense, trusting the process is the play.
