Jordan Addison of the Vikings was hurt by a teammate following a Nick Mullens interception against the Lions.
QB Nick Mullens of the Minnesota Vikings had an intense first half against the Detroit Lions in Week 16. Despite throwing for 182 yards and a touchdown in the first half, Mullens also threw two interceptions, and late in the second quarter, he had a double whammy of poor plays. Kerby Joseph picked off Mullens as he attempted to pass the ball down the field to rookie wide receiver Jordan Addison. When Addison tried to run after Joseph, his own teammate tackled him, causing injuries throughout the play.
According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, Addison headed to the injury tent following the hit. After entering the locker room, it was first thought that Addison might not be able to return due to an ankle injury. Later on, the rookie was eliminated.
The Lions took advantage of the fumble fast, leading 17–7 heading into halftime. However, just before the half, Mullens and Justin Jefferson tied the score with a touchdown pass, making it 17–14.
Despite dealing with several significant injuries this season, Jordan Addison has had an outstanding first season for the Vikings. Naturally, Kirk Cousins’ torn Achilles will keep him out of the game for the remainder of the season, and Justin Jefferson has struggled with his own injuries. While Jefferson appears to be fully recovered, Addison is currently experiencing pain.
The 2023 first-round selection had nine touchdowns and 824 yards from 62 receptions when he started playing on Sunday. Before leaving this Week 16 match due to an ankle injury, the rookie Vikings wide out had one reception for two yards.
The Vikings are playing for a postseason spot, so this is a big game for them. After blowing a commanding lead against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 15, Minnesota fell to 7-7 and now holds the seventh and final NFC playoff slot.
For the Vikings to have a chance in the playoffs, they would need to defeat the division-leading Lions. Jordan Addison won’t be available to assist them, but they still have the second half to pull it off.