Vikings Place RB Jordan Mason On IR

The Vikings also announced on Wednesday that fellow running back DeeJay Dallas has been signed from the practice squad to the active roster. Dallas was a gameday elevation for Week 1. Replacing him on Minnesota’s taxi squad will be Jerome Ford.

Aaron Jones faced an uncertain future this offseason, although he wound up remaining in place on a revised one-year deal. That will allow for the veteran to continue operating as a key presence in Minnesota’s backfield, and on Sunday Jones posted 40 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries. Mason led the team with 15 rushing attempts, but he will not be available for a notable period.

Acquired via trade from the 49ers last offseason, Mason signed an extension upon arrival with his new team. The former UDFA is under contract through to the end of the current campaign as a result, so an extended period on the sidelines could be key in both the short and long run in his case. Missing Mason for the time being will likely lead to an increase in Jones’ workload, especially since Dallas has primarily been a special teams contributor throughout his career. The Vikings also have sixth-round rookie Demond Claiborne in the mix.

During his first Minnesota season, Mason set a new career high in carries with 159. The 27-year-old also recorded a new personal best with six touchdowns while averaging 4.8 yards per attempt. Expectations were high for another showing as at least an effective backfield partner to Jones on early downs in particular. For now, though, that tandem will not be intact. Mason will miss games against the Bears, Buccaneers, Dolphins and Saints at a minimum. Minnesota’s bye week will follow that New Orleans game, which could help lead to a Week 7 return.

Adam La Rose contributed to this post.