The Minnesota Vikings‘ receiver room is obviously lead by the talents of Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, but beyond that the room does not necessarily have a natural #3 option.
One of those looking to put his name into the hat for the slot receiver position was former Arizona Cardinals and Atlanta Falcons wideout, Rondale Moore, who missed the entirety of last season with a knee injury suffered in training camp.
It seems that Moore’s wretched injury luck could well in fact continue on after he he was stretchered off upon suffering a leg injury after being tackled whilst returning a punt in the second quarter of the pre-season opener against the Houston Texans.
Head coach, Kevin O’Connell, spoke to the media after the game, and the prognosis did not sound good.
Per the third year HC, Moore’s injury is “pretty significant”. Although the team will need an MRI to confirm any injury suspicions, those words do not indicate optimism on the behalf of the Vikings.
How Long Could Rondale Moore Be Out For?
There is certainly a scenario – a very real one – in which the former second round pick does not see the field; for the second consecutive season; in 2025. “Leg injuries” can indicate breaks or fractures, ligament or tendon tears, or something as minor as a muscle pull.
But considering O’Connell’s post game words, in addition to the reaction of Moore’s new teammates on the sidelines, it would seem to be a real long shot that the Purdue grad makes it onto the field to start the regular season in just under a month’s time.
Indeed, Moore could be lucky if he sees any significant playing time over the next few months. Although “leg” rather than knee implies that it may not be a re-tear of his ACL – something that could spell really bad news for the entirety of his playing future – there are still many nasty and length injuries that he could have suffered.
How Will This Impact The Vikings Receiving Corps?
At this moment in time, Jalen Nailor is listed as the third starter behind Jefferson and Addison. Nailor had his best season as a pro in 2024, generating 414 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns in his third year in the league.
But he is by no-means a lock to be the Vikings’ third man – Minnesota’s third round rookie, Tai Felton, alongside former Jaguars wideout, Tim Jones, could both be contenders to take a bulk of snaps on offense this season alongside the Vikings’ main two men.
It’s a man down for Minnesota – at least for the time being – and someone will need to step up and show that they can be the guy for the organization ahead of a key first season starting for new signal caller, JJ McCarthy.
