Minnesota rules out Alexander Mattison, Brian O'Neill vs Bengals; Jefferson questionable
The Cincinnati Bengals' NFL Week 15 opponent, the Minnesota Vikings, suffered key injuries during their 3-0 win Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders, ahead of Saturday's Vikings-Bengals game at Paycor Stadium.
Star receiver Justin Jefferson was playing in his first game in more than two months. But he left the game after a big shot over the middle and did not return. Jefferson had two catches for 27 yards.
Jefferson told reporters Wednesday that he will play Saturday in Cincinnati. The Vikings' injury report listed him as a limited participant Tuesday and Wednesday, and a full participant Thursday. His game status for Saturday is questionable.
Vikings starting running back Alexander Mattison had 10 carries for 66 yards before leaving the game with an apparent right high ankle sprain. Ty Chandler had 12 carries for 35 yards.
Mattison did not practice Tuesday or Wednesday. On Thursday, the Vikings ruled him out for Saturday's game.
Starting right tackle Brian O'Neill also missed practice both days with an ankle injury, and was ruled out for Saturday. O'Neill's backup is former Bengals offensive lineman Hakeem Adeniji.
The Vikings also ruled out receiver Jalen Nailor with a concussion.
In addition, both of the Vikings' starting guards, Ed Ingram (hip) and Dalton Risner (ankle), were limited Tuesday. Risner was limited again Wednesday but was a full participant Thursday, while Ingram was a full participant Wednesday and Thursday.
The Vikings replaced their starter at quarterback, Josh Dobbs, with backup Nick Mullens during the Week 14 game against Las Vegas. Minnesota announced Tuesday that Mullens will start against the Bengals.
Dobbs was 10-of-23 for 63 yards with five sacks. Mullens was 9-of-13 for 83 yards.
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This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Minnesota rules out Alexander Mattison, Brian O'Neill vs Bengals
