Vikings Get Unfortunate News On Running Back Injury After Sunday Win

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MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - SEPTEMBER 13: Jordan Mason #27 of the Minnesota Vikings runs the ball against the Green Bay Packers in the fourth quarter of a game at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 13, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)

The Minnesota Vikings got worrying news on Monday when it was revealed that Jordan Mason was being evaluated for a thumb injury in the wake of the 39-22 comeback win over the Green Bay Packers.

Unfortunately, Mason’s results came out on Wednesday and the former San Francisco 49er will be moved to a short-term IR after it was revealed he suffered a fractured thumb over the weekend.

Ian Rapoport

@RapSheet · Follow

#Vikings RB Jordan Mason has a small fracture in his thumb and it has been fixed, per coach Kevin O’Connell. He’s on short-term IR but should be back quickly.

The team also added DeeJay Dallas to the roster.

2:47 pm · 16 Sep 2026

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How will Jordan Mason’s Injury Affect RB Carries?

“Vikings RB Jordan Mason has a small fracture in his thumb and it has been fixed, per coach Kevin O’Connell. He’s on short-term IR but should be back quickly. The team also added DeeJay Dallas to the roster.” Ian Rapoport reported on Sep. 16.

Former Seattle Seahawks fourth round draft pick DeeJay Dallas will take Mason’s spot on the active roster, with ex-Cleveland Brown Jerome Ford being added to the practice squad.

This injury will put the bulk of the load in the running game on the shoulders of veteran Pro Bowler Aaron Jones Sr., who split carries with the 27 year old in the season opener last Sunday.

Will DeeJay Dallas and Demond Claiborne See Time on the Field?

Although this could also see the introduction of rookie sixth round running back Demond Claiborne, who did not get a single carry on Sunday despite impressing during training camp back in August.

Indeed Dallas has an opportunity to come in early and make a difference in Minnesota. The 28-year old has 124 career rushes for 538 yards, averaging a very respectable 4.3 yards/carry.

Whilst Jones may well be the bell cow for Week 2’s game at the Chicago Bears, it feels unlikely that the 31-year old will occupy said role for the duration of Mason’s injury, given the former Packer’s age and over 2,100 career rushes in the regular and postseason.

Mason was the more effective runner last weekend, but neither running back particularly showed out against an improved Green Bay run defense. And it would not be surprising to see him ultimately end up as the lead back after his return from injury, anticipated to be next month.