Vikings’ bid for redemption with Justin Jefferson faces setback after OC’s drunk driving arrest

The Minnesota Vikings witnessed a turbulent season this year due to their inconsistency and injuries to key players. Besides quarterback Kirk Cousins, wide receiver Justin Jefferson also fell prey to injury. Though Cousins went down for the whole season with a torn Achilles, Jefferson has successfully been activated on the roster.

The 6-6 Vikings are now having tough competition with the 6-6 Green Bay Packers to secure a potential playoff run while sitting in the second spot in the NFC North. Meanwhile, they faced another new setback as their offensive coordinator, Wes Phillips, got embroiled in a legal battle ahead of their upcoming match against the Las Vegas Raiders.

Vikings’ offensive coordinator arrested for suspected drunk driving

Vikings OC Wes Phillips was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) after being pulled over for speeding on an interstate highway in Minneapolis. The incident occurred around 9:45 p.m. CT on I-394, where he displayed signs of “impairment,” prompting law enforcement to conduct a blood alcohol content (BAC) test. The test revealed a reading of 0.10, exceeding the legal limit of 0.08 in Minnesota.

The 44-year-old veteran was later taken into custody and booked at the Hennepin County jail. He later posted a $300 bond and was released at 1:26 a.m. A court appearance had been scheduled for Dec. 21, via AP News.

Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports that the NFL and the Vikings have promised to decide on suitable disciplinary actions while the legal processes are underway. The team issued a statement acknowledging Phillips’ arrest and announced that he will be joining the team in Las Vegas for their upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders.

“Wes immediately notified the team following his arrest last night. This morning we contacted the NFL, and after internal discussion, made the decision Wes will travel with the team to Las Vegas this afternoon. We will continue to gather information regarding the incident and have further comment at the appropriate time.”

The OC joined the Vikings in 2022 as part of coach Kevin O’Connell’s initial hires and boasts an extensive NFL coaching career spanning 17 seasons. Prior to his tenure with the Vikings, he worked alongside O’Connell on the Los Angeles Rams’ coaching staff. The vet’s experience extends through stints with the Washington Commanders, Dallas Cowboys, and the Rams.

Jefferson returns to ignite Minnesota in pivotal Raiders showdown

The Vikings received a much-needed boost as Justin Jefferson made a triumphant return from his hamstring injury. After a seven-game absence due to a hamstring injury suffered in Week 5, he was activated off the Vikings injured reserve last week.

The WR was a full participant in practice on Wednesday and didn’t get listed on the team’s final injury report. With this positive update, he is going to play in Vikings Week 14 against the Las Vegas Raiders.

Coach Kevin O’Connell expressed confidence in the young star’s fitness, assuring fans that there are no apparent limitations hindering his performance. However, he also noted caution regarding the receiver’s state while heaping praise on his unwavering commitment to come back stronger on the field.

“I don’t see any restrictions as far as his ability to go out there and function and play. He feels great.. We’ll take a look as far as the volume of snaps. This is a guy that, since I’ve been here, has been pretty hard to keep off the field. First game back, I know he’s very, very excited. … [We’re] expecting to have Justin out there a lot on Sunday.”

Jefferson sustained the injury in the Week 5 game against the Kansas City Chiefs, when the Vikings were venturing deep into the Chiefs’ territory on a crucial third-down play. He slipped on the unforgiving turf while attempting a decisive cut and limped off the field. Since then, the receiver has been off the active roster.

Before his setback, the WR had already accumulated an impressive 571 receiving yards, showcasing his exceptional talent and hinting at an imminent breakthrough of the 1,000-yard milestone. Fueled by determination, he reset his focus during his recovery period, setting a new target of reaching the coveted 1,000-yard mark.