Aaron Jones is sidelined by a hamstring IR stint with an earliest Week 7 return target, as Minnesota leans on Jordan Mason in the interim. Mason has looked like the lead back on early downs, tempering Jones’s midseason upside.

The Vikings face an uncertain Week 7 return scenario, with Jones likely eased in behind Mason in a committee. Fantasy managers should stash Jones in deeper leagues and watch practice reports for ramp timing.

Jones’s absence reshapes the backfield dynamic, making Mason the trusted early-down option while Jones offers late-season FLEX upside if he’s fully healthy and integrated.

Aaron Jones is on IR with a hamstring injury, with Week 8 the earliest return and a Week 7 bye delaying any quick comeback. Jordan Mason stepped up in Week 3, ripping off 116 yards and 2 touchdowns on 16 carries and reshaping Minnesota’s backfield usage. Jones returns as a likely third‑down/receiving option, keeping Mason as the lead early‑downs back and capping Jones’ upside for now. Stash Jones in deeper leagues and reassess once Week 8 approaches.

When back, Jones should rejoin a committee role rather than reclaiming a big workload immediately. Mason’s burst makes him the more valuable option early, while Jones offers pass‑catching utility that can keep him relevant in PPR formats. fantasy managers should pencil Jones in as a risky stash with upside only after his return.