Vikings’ Justin Jefferson unlikely to play ‘MNF’ vs. Bears in Week 12 despite improving hamstring.

Justin Jefferson was a “key part” of the Vikings’ practice Wednesday and the star wide receiver is “getting closer” to returning from a hip injury, coach Kevin O’Connell told reporters this week. According to The Athletic, Jefferson is expected to miss his seventh game Monday night when Minnesota plays the Bears. The Vikings “won’t force their best player back on the court” despite being in playoff contention, Dianna Russini wrote Thursday. It helps that Minnesota is coming off a Week 13 bye, and it helps to remember that Jefferson could take two more weeks off and be back in Week 14. He has been in reserve since October 11. Jefferson, 24, is one of the NFL’s most productive pass catchers when healthy and has repeatedly talked about getting back on the field, recently saying he’s excited to work with rookie quarterback Joshua Dobbs. But he also says he is in no rush to get back into shape, recently posting on social media that his health is more important than “fantastic games”.

If Jefferson can’t beat the Bears, the Vikings will have K.J. You will have to rely on reserves. Rookies Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson remains a top target. Minnesota (6-5) is one of several NFC teams that could earn a wild-card spot, but the Bears (3-8) were not ahead of the Lions.