Vikings Activate Aaron Jones, Face Injuries Ahead Chargers Clash

The Minnesota Vikings (3-3) travel to Los Angeles to face the 4-3 Chargers in a nationally televised Week 8 Thursday Night Football matchup. Minnesota activated RB Aaron Jones off injured reserve after a four-game absence; he is expected to play and provide pass-catching help that could relieve pressure on the team's uncertain quarterback situation — J.J. McCarthy is listed as questionable with Carson Wentz available as the backup. Starting left tackle Christian Darrisaw was cleared to be active after a pregame workout but may be on a limited snap count, while Brian O'Neill remains out. The Vikings have struggled protecting the quarterback this season, allowing 23 sacks, and have leaned on Jordan Mason as their primary rusher, though Mason has been limited as a receiver. The Chargers have been hit at running back and activated Nyheim Hines and Jaret Patterson from the practice squad to bolster the backfield ahead of the matchup.