The Vikings made it official Wednesday by formally placing Justin Jefferson on the injured reserve, meaning he will miss the next four games before he’s eligible to return – if his hamstring is healthy – in Week 10 when the Vikings face the Saints.
Minnesota also placed backup quarterback Nick Mullens (back) on injured reserve and signed veteran quarterback Sean Mannion to the practice squad. Mannion spent the 2019 and 2021 seasons as Kirk Cousins’ backup in Minnesota and had a cup of coffee with the team last summer before hitching on with the Seattle Seahawks for a bit.
Mannion’s signing comes one day after the Vikings reportedly worked out veteran quarterback Colt McCoy. With Mannion on the practice squad, rookie fifth-round pick Jaren Hall is the No. 2 QB behind Cousins.
With Jefferson on IR, the Vikings signed wide receivers N’Keal Harry and Trishton Jackson from the practice squad. They join K.J. Osborn, Jordan Addison and Brandon Powell as the receivers on the active roster.
The Vikings have also opened the window for running back/kick returner Kene Nwangwu to return from injured reserve. They now have 21 days to activate him or place him on IR for the rest of the season.
Minnesota also signed wide receiver Dan Chisena and tight end Troy Fumagalli to the practice squad.
