MINNEAPOLIMEDIA SPORTS | VIKINGS REMAIN UNDEFEATED WITH 23-16 WIN, BUT JUSTIN JEFFERSON LEAVES WITH ANKLE INJURY

TAMPA, FL (September 28, 2026). The Minnesota Vikings improved to 3-0 Sunday with a 23-16 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but the win was overshadowed by an ankle injury that forced star receiver Justin Jefferson out of the game.

Jefferson caught two passes for 32 yards during Minnesota’s opening possession before a defender landed on his ankle. He was evaluated on the sideline, attempted to remain available and was eventually ruled out.

Head coach Kevin O’Connell said Jefferson came close to returning, offering some initial optimism, but the team is expected to conduct further evaluation before Minnesota’s home game against Miami.

Myles Price supplied the game’s defining special-teams play, returning a punt 86 yards for his first NFL touchdown. The return helped Minnesota build a 10-0 advantage after Tampa Bay’s first possession.

Quarterback Kyler Murray, returning after suffering a concussion during the season opener, completed 15 of 29 passes for 168 yards, one touchdown and one interception. He connected with Jordan Addison for a 41-yard touchdown during the second quarter. Addison finished with five receptions for 90 yards.

Minnesota’s defense recorded six sacks and repeatedly prevented Tampa Bay from turning favorable field position into touchdowns. Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield completed 17 of 34 passes for 217 yards, one touchdown and one interception.

Kicker Will Reichard provided the closing margin with field goals from 56 and 43 yards. His 56-yard conversion gave Minnesota a four-point lead with 3:10 remaining.

Mayfield suffered a thumb injury during Tampa Bay’s final possession and was replaced by rookie Jalon Daniels. The loss dropped the Buccaneers to 0-3.

The Vikings return to U.S. Bank Stadium Sunday, Oct. 4, to face the Miami Dolphins.

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