Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones Sr. addresses the media as the team prepares for a Week 2 matchup against the Chicago Bears during the 2026 NFL regular season. The veteran back prepares to take on an expanded role following a significant backfield injury.
Jordan Mason Placed on Injured Reserve
Minnesota Vikings running back Jordan Mason was placed on injured reserve after sustaining a thumb injury that required surgery, according to announcements made by head coach Kevin O’Connell. Mason suffered the injury during the Vikings’ Week 1 victory over the Green Bay Packers, where he rushed for 59 yards and a touchdown on 15 carries.
To address the sudden depth shortage, the Vikings signed running back DeeJay Dallas to the 53-ማን roster and added Jerome Ford to the practice squad, according to reports from The Viking Age. The franchise also evaluated running back Kenny McIntosh during a Tuesday workout before finalizing the roster adjustments.
Aaron Jones Sr. Steps Into Lead Role Against Familiar Opponent
With Mason sidelined, Aaron Jones Sr. is slated to shoulder the primary rushing load against the Chicago Bears. Jones brings extensive history against Chicago from his tenure with the Green Bay Packers, having faced the NFC North rival 17 times in his career.
According to historical data tracked by ESPN and cited by The Viking Age, Jones has accumulated 997 rushing yards and 14 total touchdowns—comprising nine rushing and five receiving scores—across his 17 career games against the Bears. In four career matchups specifically played as a member of the Vikings, Jones has recorded at least 16 carries in three contests and generated a minimum of 67 yards from scrimmage in every outing.
Vikings Ground Game Commitments in Week 2
The reliance on Jones aligns with Kevin O’Connell’s offensive strategy from Week 1, where the Vikings leaned heavily on the run game by calling 27 rushing plays while trailing, marking the second-highest total in that specific game script during O’Connell’s tenure, as reported by Alec Lewis of The Athletic. This commitment to the ground attack remains a focal point as Minnesota prepares to face a Chicago defense that surrendered 5.7 yards per carry to the Carolina Panthers in their season opener.
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