Justin Jefferson returns to practice Monday, ramping up ahead of Minnesota's 2025 opener against the Chicago Bears. The Vikings’ star has missed most of camp with a hamstring issue, but coach Kevin O’Connell indicated he will participate in practice inBits and pieces as he climbs back toward full speed. Jefferson’s elite track record—five straight 1,000+ yard seasons, four Pro Bowls, and an Offensive Player of the Year award—promises a dramatic uptick for the Vikings’ offense once healthy. He’ll help second-year passer J.J. McCarthy settle in as the starter, a process that Minnesota will manage carefully in Week 1. The Bears visit U.S. Bank Stadium on Sept. 8 to open the season.

Jefferson’s return accelerates Minnesota’s air game, but the ramp-up means Week 1 could feature limited snaps and a measured workload. Fantasy managers should brace for a cautious start, then expect Jefferson to dominate targets as he nears full strength. In the meantime, McCarthy’s timing and the Vikings’ growing chemistry will be the tell for how high the ceiling can rise this season. The early signal is clear: Minnesota wants Jefferson back and healthy as soon as possible, with Week 1 as the first litmus test.