Justin Jefferson out for Vikings’ game vs. Dolphins with ankle injury

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson will miss Sunday’s game against the Miami Dolphins after an ankle injury sidelined the team on Friday.

Jefferson sprained his ankle in Week 3’s win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but avoided a major injury. He did not practice this week. He has 13 catches for 179 yards and two touchdowns so far this season.

Jefferson, 27, will be sidelined for seven games after the 2023 season with a hamstring injury. In the year Other than this stretch in 2023, he has played in every possible game in his seven-year career.

Minnesota is off to a 3-0 start despite quarterback Kyler Murray missing the first two games with a concussion. After hosting the 0-3 Dolphins on Sunday, the Vikings will visit the New Orleans Saints in Week 5 and then have a Week 6 bye.

What does this mean as Murray tries to create momentum with the Vikings offense?

Fortunately, the Vikings are facing the Dolphins this weekend. No team allows more points on drives than Miami, giving Murray and the Vikings offense a chance to ramp up.

Jefferson’s absence delayed further integration with Murray. But Minnesota has other reliable options, perhaps none more dynamic than 2023 first-round pick Jordan Addison. He and Murray became close this season. Both spent most of their offseason in Dallas, and their relationship translated throughout training camp. Addison caught five passes for 90 yards last week, including a 41-yard touchdown from Murray.

This is an opportunity for veteran receiver Jawan Jennings, who has just one reception in three games. Jefferson hasn’t practiced this week, but will watch games as a native of New Orleans, St. Rose, La. Another win could set up a more all-out attack against Saints next weekend.