For Minnesota Vikings star receiver Justin Jefferson, that transition is on an entirely different level this season. The team is still learning to play alongside their new QB J.J. McCarthy. The move comes in the heels of an incredible 2022 campaign for Jefferson. He dazzled with 128 receptions for 1,809 yards and eight touchdowns, winning the NFL’s Offensive Player of the Year. In an evolving offense, Jefferson needs to show he can return to the powerful shape he was in a year ago.
Jefferson found herself with a poignant case of déjà vu just recently. Then he looked back at a highlight film of his ridiculous one-handed catch against the Buffalo Bills last season. This artist’s highlight is merely to be taken as the indication of greater things to come. Jefferson is the first to admit that his play hasn’t lived up to those numbers so far. This season that’s resulted in him averaging 76.2 YPG—good for 9th in the NFL. That number looks paltry against his gaudy 2022 numbers.
In discussing McCarthy’s performance, Jefferson praised the young quarterback, stating, “He’s a great quarterback. He’s a great kid,” further emphasizing his belief in McCarthy’s potential. As positive and hopeful these comparisons sound, Jefferson’s last few games haven’t produced those same results. In four starts under McCarthy, those numbers have dropped to an average of 4.25 receptions for 52.3 receiving yards per game. This drop off is striking when compared to his past success.
When asked about his past performances, Jefferson looked back and candidly mentioned that one game “most definitely wasn’t one of my better games.” He only managed to haul in four of the dozen passes thrown at him in that contest. Plus, two of McCarthy’s targets towards Jefferson fell into the palms of the opposite Ravens protection. Those kind of stats just go to show how tough it’s been out there as both of these guys adjust to how each other plays.
Striving to return to what he refers to as “savage mode” with an “F-it mentality,” Jefferson remains determined to work back to his peak performance level. He took time to look back on the events that decided his journey thus far. In Evil Geniuses’ post-tournament interview, he attributed “life” for a change from his 2022 dominant form.
In light of this mentality, Jefferson is intent on mastering his craft and developing a better rapport with McCarthy. The duo’s progress will be crucial for the Vikings as they look to capitalize on Jefferson’s exceptional talents while integrating McCarthy into their offensive strategy.
With the season beyond the halfway point, Jefferson continues to lead the charge. He hopes to get back to the dazzling digits that marked his last full season. He remains committed to “just going out there and just killing it” as he works diligently to enhance his performance and solidify his place among the league’s elite receivers once again.
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