Jordan Mason is back, and the rest of the NFC should be worried originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Minnesota Vikings received some much-needed reinforcements Saturday, officially activating running back Jordan Mason from injured reserve ahead of Sunday's Week 7 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts.
Mason, who suffered a fractured thumb during Minnesota's season-opening victory over the Green Bay Packers, underwent surgery and missed the team's previous four games. His return provides another dangerous weapon for a Vikings offense looking to maintain its undefeated start.
Minnesota enters Sunday's contest with a perfect 5-0 record, and Mason's return could make the Vikings even more difficult to defend.
Before suffering the injury, Mason rushed for 59 yards and one touchdown on 15 carries in Minnesota's 39-22 victory over Green Bay.
During his absence, veteran running back Aaron Jones Sr. carried much of the offensive workload, recording 370 rushing yards on 85 attempts over four games.
Vikings should have improve run game
Now, Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell has an opportunity to establish a more balanced rushing attack.
"How we go about the usage there is going to be an exciting thing," O'Connell said, expressing confidence in both running backs.
The coach also acknowledged Jones' heavy workload and welcomed the opportunity to have Mason available again.
Mason's physical running style complements Jones' versatility, potentially giving Minnesota one of the more effective backfield combinations in the NFC.
The Vikings also made roster adjustments to accommodate Mason's return, releasing running back DeeJay Dallas from their active roster before signing him to the practice squad.
Dallas is expected to be elevated for Sunday's contest against Indianapolis.
For Minnesota, the timing couldn't be better.
Coming off their Week 6 bye, the Vikings are getting healthier while preparing for a challenging stretch of their schedule.
Quarterback Kyler Murray will also benefit from having another reliable rushing option, particularly in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
If Mason quickly returns to his early-season form, Minnesota's offense could become considerably more balanced.
The Vikings have already demonstrated their ability to win without him. Now, his return gives them another opportunity to strengthen their position among the NFC's contenders.
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