Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson was a popular pick for the 1.01 spot in fantasy football this year, and he has delivered when on the field. In the games he played entirely, the star receiver is averaging over 25 PPR points per game. However, he's only played in four full games and hasn't done so since Week 4.
After returning from a seven-game absence due to a hamstring injury, the 24-year-old suffered a chest injury in the team's Week 14 game. Despite going directly to the hospital after leaving the game, the team believes he has a chance to play in Week 15.
When is Jefferson coming back to action? What is his fantasy football outlook when he returns? Let's dive in.
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Justin Jefferson Injury Update for Fantasy Football
Jefferson (chest) left Week 14's game after playing just 18% of the snaps in his return from the injured reserve. Head coach Kevin O'Connell said he's day-to-day and has a chance to play on Saturday in Week 15 against the Bengals. Taking Jefferson to the hospital when he left the game was a precautionary move, according to the team.
With the Vikings at 7-6 and leading the wild card race, Jefferson has every reason to return and help his team make a playoff push. His practice status this week will determine if he can play in Week 15 or not.
Justin Jefferson Fantasy Football Outlook
When on the field, Jefferson has justified the number one overall pick that many fantasy managers spent on him. However, given that he has only played four full games, most managers find themselves eliminated from the playoffs. For those who have survived without him, there's a chance he could provide a timely boost.
Injuries aside, assessing Jefferson's current value in the Vikings' offense is challenging. The team benched Joshua Dobbs after putting up only three points in Week 14, and there's a possibility they'll start Nick Mullens in Week 15. While Jefferson possesses immense talent, the dynamics of the offense lower his ceiling, putting him in a situation similar to Ja'Marr Chase or Garrett Wilson.
With upcoming games against the Bengals, Lions, and Packers, the matchups favor Jefferson if he can return. Without Kirk Cousins, he may not be a consistent source of 25 or more PPR points, but his talent alone makes him a great play when healthy.
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