Vikings’ Jefferson (ankle) optimistic about playing vs. Saints

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson returned to practice on a limited basis Wednesday after spraining his left ankle 10 days ago. Jefferson expressed optimism about playing Sunday against the New Orleans Saints, stating that the current plan is for him to play as the team takes his status day by day.

Jefferson suffered the injury during Minnesota's Sept. 28 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and sat out the team's subsequent win against the Miami Dolphins. He noted that playing in his home state of Louisiana is a major motivator to return this week rather than resting ahead of the Vikings' Week 6 bye.