The Minnesota Vikings announced on Thursday that wide receiver Justin Jefferson and safety Harrison Smith both will be healthy scratches against the Raiders.
Coach Kevin O’Connell made the announcement during his media availability on Thursday. He mentioned that neither player has anything wrong with them, just that they are veterans and not needed for this preseason game, so there is no need to risk injury.
This allows other players to step up and get some reps in in their absence.
On offense, wide receivers Jalen Nailor and Brandon Powell will have more targets and snaps to compete for the WR3 spot. Nailor has had a strong camp, but Powell and his versatility seem to have the coaching staff holding out hope.
With Smith resting, Joshua Metellus is expected to start in his place, but we can also expect to see Theo Jackson in more.
It may diminish the viewing experience, but it gives much-needed reps to players fighting for specific roles, which helps the team in the long run.