WR Addison Suspended for First 3 Games

One of the most significant stories emerging from Minnesota this week is a setback that could impact the Vikings as they gear up for the 2025 season. On Tuesday, the NFL announced that wide receiver Jordan Addison will be suspended for the first three games for violating the league’s substances of abuse policy. This development arrives at a crucial juncture, just as the team works to build momentum and develop on-field chemistry.

Addison’s suspension follows the resolution of a 2024 DUI citation, in which he pleaded no contest to a lesser charge in July. Despite the suspension, he remains fully eligible to participate in all training camp activities and preseason games without restriction. However, once the regular season begins, Addison will be barred from entering the team facility for the entire three-week suspension. This strict limitation means he cannot practice or attend games during that span—a significant blow to both player and team.

Drafted in the first round out of USC in 2023, Addison quickly established himself as a key contributor. In just two seasons, he has recorded 133 receptions, 1,786 receiving yards, and 19 touchdowns. Although he has yet to surpass 1,000 yards in a single campaign, his steady production has made him a dependable and dynamic No. 2 receiver—an essential complement to Vikings star wideout Justin Jefferson. Addison’s absence early in the season is sure to test the team’s offensive depth and cohesion, placing additional pressure on the remaining receivers to elevate their play.

Minnesota is leaning heavily on the Jefferson-Addison duo, especially with first-year starter J.J. McCarthy stepping in after missing his rookie season due to injury. When healthy, this pairing forms one of the league’s most formidable one-two punches, and the franchise is counting on them to deliver once again. Unfortunately, the Vikings will have to weather the early-season storm without Addison as he serves his suspension.