After missing the required number of games, star receiver Justin Jefferson has been designated for return. As a result, Jefferson was able to practice on Wednesday at TCO Performance Center, and the Vikings now have 21 days to activate him from injured reserve.

Though this is the first step for Jefferson getting back on the field for a game, it does not necessary mean he will play for the Vikings against the New Orleans Saints this weekend. The medical staff will monitor how Jefferson responds to work in practice before making that decision.

The fact that the Vikings have managed to turn things around without their best player is notable. Not only are they are a perfect 4-0 without since Jefferson suffered a hamstring injury in to the Kansas City Chiefs, the Vikings have improved their record to 5-4 in the process to get themselves back into the NFC playoff picture.

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