Vikings' WR Jordan Addison on track for Week 1, despite ankle and legal woes

The Minnesota Vikings are set to face the New York Giants in Week 1 of the NFL season, but injuries remain a point of concern for head coach Kevin O'Connell.

Vikings to have Addison for Week 1

Jordan Addison, one of the key pieces in the Vikings' offense, suffered a sprained ankle during t practices with the Cleveland Browns in mid-August.

Fortunately, the injury wasn't as serious as initially feared, and Addison's prospects for the season opener look promising.

The wide receiver had to be carted off the field during practice after leaping for a contested catch, raising initial fears about a more significant setback.

However, the Vikings' medical staff opted to be cautious, and Addison's recovery process has since shown encouraging signs.

Coach O'Connell provided an optimistic update on Addison's status, telling reporters, "We'd like to kind of progress him, hopefully to full participation by the end of the week. I think Jordan's in a good spot. I feel pretty good about him making the game."

Addison to serve possible suspension in 2024

Addison's presence on the field would be crucial for the Vikings' offensive strategy, especially with starting quarterback JJ McCarthy sidelined for the season due to injury.

Addison's potential return would provide much-needed to star wide receiver Justin Jefferson, who remains the team's primary target in the ing game.

Without Addison, the Vikings' depth in the receiving corps would be thin, with Brandon Powell being the only available slot receiver.

While Addison's injury recovery appears to be on track, his status remains officially listed as "limited" in practice, with local insider Darren Wolfson predicting that he will likely play against the Giants.

Beyond the injury, another challenge looms for Addison with a potential suspension following his July arrest for suspicion of DUI.

He faces two misdemeanor charges, with a hearing scheduled for October, which could result in a three-game suspension under the NFL's substance abuse policy.

Addison's availability would undoubtedly bolster the Vikings' chances as they look to start their season with momentum against the Giants.

Having played a stellar rookie season, tallying 70 receptions and 911 yards with an impressive average of 13 yards per catch, Addison has quickly established himself as a reliable playmaker in O'Connell's offense.

His return to the lineup could help alleviate some of the pressure on Jefferson and provide quarterback Sam Darnold with another dynamic option.