Vikings Stay Undefeated as Aaron Jones Aggravates Injury; Jordan Mason Provides Relief

In Week 7, the Minnesota Vikings defeated the Indianapolis Colts 16-10 to preserve their unbeaten record. After the game, Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell disclosed that veteran running back Aaron Jones aggravated an injury he had sustained a few weeks earlier. The information comes from Josh Alper of Pro Football Talk.

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Jones entered the 2026 season strongly, accumulating 410 rushing yards and two touchdowns, along with 12 catches for 72 yards before the setback. In the Colts game he carried the ball eight times for 26 yards and recorded a catch for no gain before exiting.

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Jordan Mason, returning from a five-week absence due to a fractured thumb, stepped into the primary back role. He logged 68 yards on 15 carries, averaging 4.5 yards per attempt. Mason, an undrafted free agent from the 2022 NFL Draft, has amassed 2,070 career rushing yards and 14 touchdowns.

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Coach O’Connell said the team will need to rely on Mason’s production if Jones is sidelined for an extended period.

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The injury to Jones creates uncertainty for Minnesota’s ground game, but Mason’s effective return mitigates immediate concerns. Maintaining an undefeated streak while adjusting the backfield suggests the Vikings can sustain offensive balance despite the setback. Continued health monitoring of Jones will dictate whether Mason remains a primary contributor or serves in a complementary role.

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• Final score: Vikings 16, Colts 10 (Week 7)

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• Aaron Jones: 8 carries, 26 yards; 1 reception, 0 yards (injury)

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• Jordan Mason: 15 carries, 68 yards, 4.5 yd/carry

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• Jones season to date: 410 rushing yards, 2 TDs; 12 receptions, 72 yards

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• Mason career totals: 2,070 rushing yards, 14 touchdowns

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These figures illustrate the immediate shift in Minnesota’s rushing attack and the potential ramifications for the remainder of the season.

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