Aaron Jones issues complaint over being carted off during Vikings vs Jaguars game
When Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones went down with an apparent rib injury during the 12-7 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, fans might have smelled trouble. Seeing Jones carted off the field raised major concerns, but the Pro Bowler swiftly put those worries to rest.
The injury occurred midway through the third quarter when Jones took a direct hit from Jaguars linebacker Foye Oluokun on a 7-yard run. Jones was visibly in pain, staying doubled over on the field for several seconds before attempting to run off. However, he went down again, holding his right side as the Vikings' medical staff attended to him.
Appearing on the "Up & Adams" show on Nov. 11, Jones provided much-needed clarity on the situation.
"The only reason I got carted off was because the X-ray machine was on the whole other side of the stadium," he explained. "So, like, gotta get in the cart."
It was seemingly a logistical decision, not a sign of a severe injury. X-rays ultimately revealed no serious damage to Jones' ribs. After some time in the medical tent, he returned to the game and finished with 88 rushing yards on 17 carries, along with 13 receiving yards.
Aaron Jones' determination to play despite a rib injury
Aaron Jones' mentality is something fans can rally behind. Despite being in visible pain and needing X-rays, he pushed through and returned to the game, contributing crucial yards during the final drives.
"A lot of blood, sweat and tears go into it, just for these 17 games," Jones said postgame. "When a game is taken away from you, you really feel it. So I'm like, 'I don't want to miss any time. I want to get back out there.'"
Even with the pain still lingering, Jones demonstrated the kind of toughness that resonates with football fans.
"The initial hit, I thought it cracked something," Jones admitted. "But I'm good."
Head coach Kevin O'Connell said Aaron Jones would undergo further testing on Monday, but the player himself expressed confidence in his availability for next Sunday's clash with the Tennessee Titans.
Vikings fans can rest assured that their star running back avoided a significant injury and will be potentially ready to lead the charge in the upcoming matchup.