minnesotacbslocal
The Minnesota Vikings have designated running back Jordan Mason for return from injured reserve, the team announced Monday. The move opens a three-week practice window for Mason, who has been sidelined for four games with a broken thumb.
Mason sustained the fracture in the season opener on Sept. 13 against the Green Bay Packers. Under NFL rules, he must be added to the active roster within three weeks or be ineligible for the remainder of the season. The Vikings anticipate Mason will be ready to play after the minimum absence.
Minnesota, undefeated at 5-0 and preparing to host the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, has leaned heavily on 10th-year veteran Aaron Jones. Jones's average of 19.4 rushing attempts per game would be a career high over a full season. He has amassed 410 rushing yards and two touchdowns, along with 12 receptions for 72 yards.
Mason led the Vikings with 758 rushing yards and six touchdowns last season, his first with the team after spending his first three NFL years with the San Francisco 49ers.
Key Analysis
Mason's return comes at a critical juncture for Minnesota, which has relied extensively on the 30-year-old Jones. Adding Mason back into the fold should help distribute the workload and keep Jones fresh for the remainder of the campaign. The Vikings' 5-0 start has been powered by a balanced attack, and Mason's fresh legs could provide a significant boost as the season progresses.
Originally reported by minnesotacbslocal.