Andrew Krammer

Jefferson, coming off a 37-yard game against the Ravens, said his connection with quarterback J.J. McCarthy “will continue to grow.”

Quarterback Carson Wentz also underwent “successful” shoulder surgery this week, Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell said.

As with any rookie quarterback, growing pains are expected. But for Minnesota Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy, more consistency is needed if the team is to find its way back to the postseason.

Greenard could play Sunday against the Bears, said Kevin O’Connell, who added he’s “very encouraged” by center Ryan Kelly’s progress in the concussion protocol.

Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy threw deep to Justin Jefferson on third-and-short early in the third quarter vs. the Ravens, and the ball was intercepted.

Greenard left in the third quarter after landing on his left shoulder while chasing Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson.

With cornerback Jeff Okudah placed on injured reserve, the Vikings are among at least six NFL teams exploring signing Asante Samuel Jr.

Only 11 NFL teams have put a fullback on the field this season, and two of them will square off Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium.

J.J. McCarthy is always trying to have fun on the football field, but missing 20 of his first 22 NFL games because of injury has also created an anger he wants to harness.

Finally healthy after being limited by a neck injury since August, Vikings outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel proved how valuable he is in the upset of the Lions.