The Minnesota Vikings will have to adjust their rushing attack for the next several weeks after placing running back Jordan Mason on injured reserve.
Mason suffered a fractured thumb during Minnesota's Week 1 game against the Green Bay Packers and later underwent surgery to repair the injury. Head coach Kevin O'Connell confirmed the roster move and expressed optimism that Mason can return after the minimum required absence.
Jordan Mason will miss at least four games
Because Mason has been placed on injured reserve, he must remain sidelined for at least four games. His first opportunity to return will come after completing that minimum absence and receiving the necessary medical clearance.
The injury is a significant setback for Minnesota because Mason played an important role in the team's season opener.
Mason made an impact against Green Bay
Mason finished Minnesota's Week 1 victory with 59 rushing yards and a touchdown on 15 carries. He was one of the Vikings' most productive rushing options throughout the game.
Minnesota will now have to distribute Mason's workload among the remaining members of its backfield.
Aaron Jones will have a larger role
Aaron Jones Sr. is expected to handle a larger share of the workload following Mason's injury. Jones also scored a touchdown in Week 1 and finished with 40 rushing yards on 12 carries.
The Vikings have also promoted running back DeeJay Dallas from the practice squad to the active roster and added Jerome Ford to the practice squad to strengthen their depth at the position.
Rookie Demond Claiborne could also receive additional opportunities after being inactive for Minnesota's season opener.
Vikings still waiting on Kyler Murray
Mason's injury comes alongside another major concern involving quarterback Kyler Murray, who continues progressing through the concussion protocol after being injured in Week 1.
Murray participated on a limited basis in practice and still needs medical clearance before returning to game action. If he is unable to play, Carson Wentz would start against the Chicago Bears.
The Vikings will travel to Chicago on Sunday, September 20, for their Week 2 matchup, with several important personnel decisions still to be made.