Vikings WR Jordan Addison Suspended! What This Means For Minnesota
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison will be suspended for the first three games of the 2025 season. The suspension stems from a DUI charge Addison received in July 2024, the NFL announced on Tuesday.
Addison's suspension means he will miss games against the Chicago Bears, Atlanta Falcons, and Cincinnati Bengals. However, he is permitted to participate in all training camp activities, including preseason games.
The Incident and Legal Outcome
Addison was arrested in Southern California after being found asleep at the wheel, blocking a freeway lane near Los Angeles International Airport. He was initially charged with driving under the influence. To avoid a jury trial, Addison pled down to a lesser offense known as a "wet reckless." This plea resulted in 12 months' probation, a fine, and completion of online DUI courses.
According to Addison's agent, Tim Younger, the probation is expected to end early after six months. Crucially, Addison will not have his driver's license suspended. Despite avoiding a formal DUI conviction, the NFL's personal conduct policy allows for punishment even without a criminal conviction.
Addison's Impact on the Vikings
Addison has been a consistent performer for the Vikings in his first two seasons, starting in 15 games last season. He is the team's second-leading receiver and scorer. In 2023 and 2024 he amassed 911 and 875 receiving yards respectively. The Vikings drafted Addison 23rd overall in 2023, and he quickly became an important part of the offense, especially when Justin Jefferson was sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Future Implications
With Jefferson recently signing a $35 million-per-year extension and T.J. Hockenson also on a significant contract, Addison's rookie-contract production has been valuable. While he won't be extension-eligible until January, this DUI incident could give the Vikings reason to pause on a potential extension. Addison is currently signed through 2026, with a potential fifth-year option for 2027, providing the team with more time to evaluate his performance and character.
This suspension also comes at a time when Jefferson is dealing with another hamstring issue, raising concerns about the Vikings' receiving corps heading into the season.