Aaron Jones is placed on injured reserve with a hamstring, joining J.J. McCarthy on the Vikings’ sidelined list. Jordan Mason steps into the lead-back role, and early Week 2 touches hint at a clearer, steadier workload as Minnesota waits on quarterback clarity. Jones is out a minimum of four weeks, reshaping the backfield for fantasy expectations.

With Mason handling more carries and Minnesota likely leaning toward a patient, run‑first script, the offense may ride the ground game while the QB situation behind center remains unsettled. Mason could be the steady source of fantasy points for the near term even as the Vikings figure out their passer situation behind center.

Vikings add Desmond Ridder to back up Carson Wentz after J.J. McCarthy’s injury, bolstering QB depth with an NFL-tested passer who can move when needed. Ridder’s arrival, coupled with Wentz as starter, signals a pragmatic plan to weather weeks without McCarthy while keeping an eye on upside if he gets on the field.

Fantasy-wise, expect Wentz to anchor the offense while Ridder offers a floor from rushing and a potential ceiling if he’s pressed into action. The move underscores Minnesota’s willingness to deploy a two-QB approach, leveraging Ridder’s mobility in designed plays and situational packages.

The Vikings face a prolonged absence for J.J. McCarthy after a high ankle sprain that could sideline him for 2-4 weeks. Carson Wentz steps in as the starter, with Minnesota weighing a Europe-tilted schedule that could push McCarthy’s return to Week 7 against Philadelphia. The team also navigates a Week 3 tilt with Cincinnati while balancing travel-heavy Weeks 4 (Dublin) and 5 (London). Minnesota aims to protect McCarthy during the recovery to prevent reaggravation, following a 2024 preseason meniscus injury.

With the plan to keep the rookie QB closer to peak health, the Vikings’ offense is likely to lean on Wentz’s veteran distribution and a restructured week-to-week game plan. The unusual overseas footprint adds a layer of urgency for a quick, clean rehab, as the bye in Week 6 offers a clean reset before the late-season stretch. Fantasy managers should monitor Wentz’s early targeting and any changes in the pass-game rhythm as McCarthy’s timeline remains fluid.

Injury timing and the cross-continental schedule create an opportunity window for Minnesota to optimize the offense around Wentz while preserving McCarthy for a potential Week 7 return. The decision underscores the prioritization of long-term health over immediate spark, a stance that could shift early-season fantasy outcomes and betting angles as details evolve.