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The Minnesota Vikings got a positive update on running back Aaron Jones, who practiced on a limited basis Thursday after sitting out the previous day with a knee injury. Jones aggravated a sprained MCL in his left knee during the team's 16-10 victory over the Indianapolis Colts last Sunday, but his return to TCO Performance Center keeps him in contention for the upcoming NFC North battle.
The 31-year-old has been managing the knee issue since suffering the sprain in Week 2. Despite the setback, he has been productive through six games, rushing for 436 yards and two touchdowns on 105 carries (4.2 yards per attempt) while adding 13 receptions for 72 yards. Jones has shouldered heavy workloads at times, including a 23-carry, 105-yard effort against the Chicago Bears and a 25-attempt, 113-yard, one-touchdown performance versus the New Orleans Saints. However, his role diminished against the Colts, where he managed just eight carries for 26 yards and one reception for no gain.
The return of running back Jordan Mason from injured reserve has also altered Minnesota's backfield dynamics. Mason, who rejoined the team on October 24, led the Vikings with 15 carries for 68 yards against Indianapolis.
Key Analysis
Jones's limited participation is a promising sign for a Vikings team that remains undefeated at 6-0 and faces a critical test against the 4-2 Lions on Sunday. His ability to play through the knee sprain will be vital, especially with Mason back in the mix to share the load. Elsewhere on the injury front, left guard Joe Huber returned after missing Wednesday with knee soreness, and right tackle Brian O'Neill upgraded to a full practice. Guard Joe Huber also practiced fully after initially sitting out, while tight end Gavin Bartholomew was added to the report with an ankle issue. Minnesota will hold another practice Friday before releasing its final injury report, which will clarify Jones's status for the pivotal matchup.
Originally reported by yahoo.