The Minnesota Vikings are preparing for a crucial Week 15 matchup with the Dallas Cowboys, needing a win to keep playoff hopes alive.
However, injuries to Aaron Jones Sr. and T.J. Hockenson worry fans. They fear facing a critical match without their stars. The latest updates, however, suggest that the situation may not be all bad for Minnesota.
Will Aaron Jones Sr. Play Against the Cowboys?
According to the Vikings’ injury report, Jones had a limited practice. He showed he is fit to play against the Cowboys on Sunday. The running back has struggled with a shoulder injury since Week 13, when he was hurt in a loss to the Seattle Seahawks.
On the other hand, the RB was able to play against the Washington Commanders and helped secure a 31-0 win in Week 14. He has 157 scrimmage yards and six touchdowns against Dallas. That record shows his presence will be vital to the Vikings’ offense.
Jones’ injury problems led Jordan Mason to take on a more prominent role as the running back. Mason had nine or more carries in each of the team’s first six games. This changed after the defeat to the Los Angeles Chargers.
Also, Jones (who ranks 27th in the PFSN RB Impact metric with a C grade) had nine or more carries in five of the last six games. Mason, who continued to lead the backfield in snaps, did so only twice. This demonstrates the importance of Jones Sr. both within and outside the defensive line.
The main difference between the team’s leading RBs is the offensive coordinator’s trust in passing situations. Jones received more than 20 passes in the last six games. Mason, important for long-running plays, received only three in that same period.
T.J. Hockenson Is Injured and May Not Face Dallas
Unlike the positive updates about Jones Sr., tight end Hockenson has a more delicate injury. He did not participate in Wednesday’s practice because of a shin injury. This is a big problem for J.J. McCarthy, a quarterback who likes throwing to TEs.
Hockenson’s appearance on the injured reserve list was an unpleasant surprise. It is possible the veteran will be cut from Sunday Night Football. The 28-year-old is not having a great season with only 370 yards and three TDs, but his presence adds experience.
The Minnesota Vikings still must face the New York Giants, Detroit Lions, and Green Bay Packers to end the regular season. A loss on SNF in Week 15 will eliminate the team from playoff contention.
