Minnesota Vikings star receiver Justin Jefferson was ruled out of Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after a first‑quarter left ankle injury. The injury occurred on a 10‑yard screen catch, and Jefferson spent time in the medical tent before watching from the sideline and later leaving the locker room. Without Jefferson, the Vikings leaned on No. 2 receiver Jordan Addison, who hauled in a 41‑yard touchdown from Kyler Murray to give Minnesota a 17‑10 lead.

The team also featured Jauan Jennings and Tai Felton in three‑receiver sets. Jefferson, who has missed only a torn hamstring in 2023, had a down season in 2025 with 1,048 receiving yards. The Vikings' shift to Murray sparked hope for his resurgence, but he posted a career‑low 179 yards through three weeks.