Brett Jones – Noteworthy
C Brett Jones started his third straight game and played 44 snaps. If injured C pat Elflein returns to the lineup, it’s possible that Jones could move to guard. Jones started at center and guard last year for New York but has focused mainly at center since coming to Minnesota in a preseason trade. “I think it’s still early in the week,” Jones said. “I’m just here to do my job and whatever they need me to do. So, going forward, that’s what I’ll do. Whatever they need me to do, I’ll be out there to do it.”
Kirk Cousins – Noteworthy
QB Kirk Cousins four times and fumbled twice in Sunday’s loss to the Bills. According to Pro Football Focus, Minnesota allowed 29 pressures by Buffalo, including two sacks, three quarterback hits and 24 hurries. It was the most hurries of any NFL team in Week 3, according to Pro Football Focus.
Pat Elflein – Noteworthy – Injury
C Pat Elflein could return to the starting lineup for Thursday’s game against the Rams. Elflein returned Sunday for the first time since undergoing offseason ankle and shoulder injuries. He played 22 snaps, but Brett Jones started his third straight game at center and played 44 snaps. Elflein said he hasn’t been told if he’ll start Thursday. “I wanted to kind of test the waters a little bit,” Elflein said. “Stamina felt good. I feel great now. It was good to get out there and get the feet wet again a little bit.” If Elflein starts, it’s possible Jones could move to guard. Jones started at center and guard last year for New York but has focused mainly at center since coming to Minnesota in a preseason trade.
Rashod Hill – Noteworthy
RT Rashod Hill started Sunday against Buffalo but left the game early for the second straight week as he deals with a troublesome foot injury. Rookie Brian O’Neill replaced Hill again and played 47 snaps. Hill said he should be ready for Thursday’s game. “We trust the guys,” Hill said. “Sowhoever the unit is out there, we trust each one of us. It don’t matter if it’s two different guys changing out.”
Riley Reiff – Noteworthy
LT Riley Reiff surrendered a total of 12 pressures against Buffalo on Sunday, according to Pro Football Focus, as he tried to deal with speed rusher Jerry Hughes. Hughes had one sack, two quarterback hits and forced a fumble.