Vikings Star Aaron Jones Has Been Playing Through Sprained MCL Since Week 2, ESPN Reveals

The Minnesota Vikings' backfield picture became a lot clearer on Thursday, with ESPN's Kevin Seifert reporting that running back Aaron Jones Sr. has been playing through a sprained MCL all season. The 31-year-old suffered the knee injury in Week 2 against the Chicago Bears, yet has handled 90 percent of the team's running-back carries since Jordan Mason was lost after the season opener. "They can measure your weight. They can't measure your heart," Jones said, reflecting on the grind of playing hurt as the Vikings' undisputed workhorse. The revelation explains the string of running-back signings and cuts Minnesota has made in recent weeks, moves that now look like insurance for their battered RB1. There is finally some relief in sight: Mason is expected back, which should let the Vikings return to a backfield rotation and give Jones a much-needed break. The injury news also adds fuel to speculation that Minnesota could pursue another rusher before the trade deadline to protect its playoff push. For a team that has leaned entirely on its veteran's toughness, getting Jones healthy may be as important as any move the front office can make.