Vikings eye RB trade as Mason returns; Ballard fired, Gardner-Johnson suspended

Key points

• The Athletic’s Alec Lewis reports the Vikings may target a running back in a trade before the deadline, citing urgency due to roster shuffling.
• Potential trade targets mentioned include Keaton Mitchell, Kimani Vidal, Tony Pollard, Kenneth Gainwell, and Tyler Allgeier.
• Jordan Mason is designated to return from injured reserve for Week 7, ending Aaron Jones’ recent high-workload stretch.
• Indianapolis Colts fired GM Chris Ballard following a 2-4 start to the season.
• Buffalo Bills safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson was suspended one game for spitting at an opponent during Week 6.
• Jalen Hurts is expected to miss the rest of the 2026 season due to blood clots, per NFL Network and ESPN.

Background

The Vikings are 5-0 and have recently traded J.J. McCarthy to the Giants, clearing cap space for Kyler Murray. Recent injuries to key players have prompted speculation about further roster moves before the trade deadline.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports and The Athletic emphasize the Vikings’ potential trade for a running back to complement Jordan Mason’s return. NFL.com provides a broader league roundup, highlighting the firing of Chris Ballard and the suspension of C.J. Gardner-Johnson. The Buffalo Bills’ official site confirms the suspension and notes that head coach Joe Brady believes Gardner-Johnson remains an important team member despite the incident. Outlets differ in focus: NBC Sports centers on fantasy implications for Mason and Jones, while NFL.com and the Bills site focus on disciplinary and managerial changes.

Why it matters

A trade for a running back could alter the fantasy value and playing time of Jordan Mason and Aaron Jones. The firing of Chris Ballard signals instability in Indianapolis, while the suspension of C.J. Gardner-Johnson impacts the Bills’ secondary depth. Jalen Hurts’ season-ending injury significantly affects the Philadelphia Eagles’ offensive outlook.

What to watch

The Vikings will likely evaluate trade options as the deadline approaches. Jordan Mason is expected to return for Week 7. C.J. Gardner-Johnson will miss Week 8 against the Ravens. The Colts will search for a new general manager.