Story perspectives

Vikings beat Saints 23-17 for 5-0 start

By Drooid · Oct 11, 2026, 10:38 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Vikings defeat Saints

Summary

Jefferson Questionable Status

Justin Jefferson entered the Saints game as a questionable receiver after a week-long ankle sprain.
Jordan Addison missed the matchup because of a lingering hamstring injury.
Coach Kevin O’Connell said roster decisions will hinge on Jefferson’s and Addison’s health Sunday morning.
Odell Beckham Jr. was elevated from the practice squad and listed among seven inactives Sunday.
Left tackle Christian Darrisaw stayed out after entering concussion protocol earlier in the week.

History

Historical Context

In 2008 the Patriots, defending AFC champions, finished 11-5 but missed the playoffs—the first 11-win team to do so since the 12-team expansion in 1990—after Tom Brady’s season-opening ACL tear and a league-high 12 injured-reserve designations. The 2024 Vikings now confront a similar test, with star receiver Justin Jefferson out with an ankle sprain and rookie Jordan Addison nursing a hamstring strain.

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Vikings defeat Saints

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