Justin Jefferson Says He'll Play Against Bengals on Saturday

Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson expects to be good to go for Saturday's game against the Bengals and his college teammate Ja'Marr Chase.

Jefferson's return from missing seven games with a hamstring injury was cut short on Sunday when he took a big hit in the second quarter against the Raiders. The Vikings made the decision to transport him to a local hospital to be evaluated for complications — internal bleeding, broken ribs, etc. — from what was described as an internal chest injury.

Jefferson felt like he could still play, he said on Wednesday. But he understood the medical staff wanting to take precautions and make sure everything was OK. He watched the game on his phone as an ambulance took him to the emergency room. Ultimately, doctors were able to rule out any signs of significant damage, and Jefferson was brought back to Allegiant Stadium around the time the game was wrapping up.

Fortunately, it turned out to be nothing more than a bruise — and Jefferson said he'll play this weekend without any limitations. "Nothing to really affect me at this moment," he said. He added that his hamstring felt 100 percent healthy on Sunday.

That's big news for the Vikings and quarterback Nick Mullens, who will be making his first start of the season against a Bengals defense that has allowed more explosive pass plays than another team.

Since his highly-anticipated return in Vegas ended after just two receptions, Jefferson is excited to get back out there and have a big game in Cincinnati.

"This week is a new week, and definitely looking to have a great game," he said.

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