One of the Vikings’ most promising young players could be ineligible for the 2024 season.
by Minneapolis Star TribuneVikings wide receiver Jordan Addison was indicted on July 31 on two misdemeanor charges related to his arrest last month for drunk driving in Los Angeles County. Under the NFL’s substance abuse policy, the arrest could result in a three-game suspension from the NFL.
Addison, a 2023 first-round draft pick from Minnesota State University, was arrested on July 14 after being found “asleep at the wheel” near Los Angeles International Airport.
The inmate was determined to have a blood alcohol content above the legal limit of 0.08 percent while driving the Rolls Royce, according to the Star Tribune.
Addison is scheduled to appear in court in Los Angeles on Oct. 7 during the team’s bye week “to enter a plea and enter a plea to the charges.”
Criminal penalties for the 22-year-old man could include up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $2,000 or the revocation of his driver’s license for up to six months.
Addison blossomed in the absence of superstar Justin Jefferson, who played in just 10 games during his rookie season due to a hamstring injury.
The former University of Pittsburgh and University of Southern California star had 70 catches for 911 yards and 10 touchdowns in his debut season.
The Vikings acquired Jefferson in a historic deal and brought back Addison, with both projected to be key pieces of the offense for the long term.
For now, it’s likely that either rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy or veteran Sam Darnold will play without Addison to start the season.
The Vikings will open the season with a road trip to host the 49ers and Texans in their first three games.
Last season, Minnesota finished with a 7-10 record after quarterback Kirk Cousins ruptured his Achilles just eight games into the season.
The new Vikings also added running back Aaron Jones, defensive end Jonathan Greenard, first-round draft pick edge rusher Dallas Turner and linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel and will compete in what could be the best NFC North division in football.
Minnesota is looking for its first playoff win since 2019, which marks head coach Kevin O’Connell’s third season at the helm.
