Justin Jefferson did not just bring the Griddy to the league, he brought a storm of records ever since he was drafted by the Vikings in 2020. With 324 catches and 4,825 receiving yards, he holds more than just footballs — he holds the most dominant start ever for a wide receiver in NFL history. His ascent hit a new peak when he became the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league. His mantra is simple: “It’s win or go home.” And when a four-time Pro Bowler like him talks, everyone nods their heads in agreement.
The Vikings’ locker room is buzzing with fresh talent looking up to Justin Jefferson for guidance. The team revamped its depth chart, adding exciting new players. Wide receiver Tai Felton will line up alongside Jefferson. The roster also gained firepower with first-round pick offensive lineman Donovan Jackson and later-round additions like tight end Gavin Bartholomew and linebacker Kobe King. These rookies seek veteran advice to navigate the Big League fresh out of college teams.
Recently, Jefferson was seen sharing wisdom with the new Vikings on an Instagram post. The post is titled, “Jettas’ gems .” As he steps into his fifth season with the Vikings, he reminded the rookies, “We don’t need y’all to go 100 miles per hour.” He explained, “It doesn’t matter. Y’all don’t have to go the fastest y’all can go. It’s all about getting to the spot and getting out the break. That’s all that matters. The transition is the most important part.”
His message was clear: speed is not everything in the game. Jefferson told the young players, “As long as you get out that transition, you’re going to catch the ball.” He added, “If you can get out the transition quicker than the cornerback, that’s the main objective.” Jefferson is able to break down the cheat code on how to achieve success. Fans who remember his rookie year know what he is talking about. Jefferson exploded for 175 yards on eight catches, setting a rookie record for the Vikings.
By breaking down this myth, Jefferson set the record straight. Many believe, “If you’re not running a 4.2 or 4.3 forty-yard dash, you can’t dominate.” But he took a hammer to this misconception, saying, “It’s not about if you can go 4-2, you know what I’m saying, running 10 yards.” For Jefferson, smart play beats raw speed every time.
It’s not just the rookies that Jefferson is connecting with; he is also in sync with his other teammates, and the JJ duo of the Vikings surely are turning heads.
Justin Jefferson and J.J. McCarthy: a work-in-progress
When the Vikings selected McCarthy with the No. 10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, they named him their future. Now, he has a real chance to prove it. Though McCarthy said this spring that he and Jefferson are “not where we want to be,” he added, “we’re going to be there when we need to.” The duo is showing up consistently at OTAs and working hard.
During the offseason, Sam Darnold left to sign a three-year, $100.5 million deal with the Seahawks. Rumors swirled about Aaron Rodgers joining Minnesota, only for him to sign with the Steelers at the end. Still, the team chose to back McCarthy over the future Hall of Famer. This was a clear signal of their long-term plan.
Now, it goes without saying that Justin Jefferson is a force at wide receiver and played a huge part in Darnold’s breakout season. This 2025 season, he will help McCarthy get off to a fast start as a starter. Before the 2025 season, Jefferson gave clear advice to his young quarterback. “Just throw it up anywhere and I’m going to go get it,” he said. “It really doesn’t matter who’s throwing. Once the ball is near my face, I try to catch it. Speed, spin, lefty or righty — it does not matter.” Over the last two seasons, Jefferson has played with five different starters yet still led the NFL with 96.6 yards per game. He always attended mandatory minicamps. Coach O’Connell encouraged him to join voluntary sessions this spring, too, to help McCarthy and new backup Sam Howell.
Jefferson is also stepping up as a leader. Earlier this year, he shared his thoughts on mentorship: “Growing up, I was more shy, led by example than by my voice.” He added, “Whenever I can offer encouraging words or help break things down, that makes a difference. Just being here earlier feels great. I’m carrying on that leadership role.”
Last year, the Vikings went 14-3 under Darnold. That sets a high bar for McCarthy. Still, the team has the talent to chase that success again.
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