Vikings' running back depth thins as Aaron Jones battles knee injury

The Minnesota Vikings enter this week with uncertainty at running back after starter Aaron Jones Sr. was listed as working through a knee injury, according to ESPN. The issue adds a new layer of concern for a backfield that was already thin behind Jones.

Compounding the situation, backup running back Jordan Mason remains on injured reserve, meaning he is unavailable to step in and share carries while Jones manages his knee. That leaves the Vikings with limited proven depth at the position heading into practice this week.

Jones, who signed with Minnesota to serve as the team's primary ball-carrier, has been a focal point of the offense's ground game this season. Any reduction in his workload, or a potential absence, would force the Vikings' coaching staff to lean on less experienced options on the roster.

The team has not indicated whether Jones is expected to play through the injury or whether he could be held out of practice or a game as a precaution. His participation in the days ahead is likely to shape how Minnesota approaches its offensive game plan.

With Mason's return from injured reserve still pending, the Vikings' coaching staff faces a decision on how to allocate carries if Jones's knee limits his availability — a situation that will be watched closely as the week progresses.