Although many people consider Justin Jefferson to be the best wide receiver in the entire sport, he reset the wide receiver market earlier this offseason. However, in 2024, the quarterback situation for the Minnesota Vikings will be very different from it has ever been.
Sam Darnold and J.J. McCarthy, a first-round pick, will probably compete for the starting job in training camp after Kirk Cousins signed a free agent contract with the Atlanta Falcons this winter.
Jefferson said on The Rich Eisen Show that he was somewhat taken aback by Cousins’ decision to leave.
When asked if he was shocked that his quarterback left on “The Rich Eisen Show” on Tuesday, Jefferson responded, “Yeah and no.” “I’ve always known Kirk will take whatever necessary action to further his business interests. I simply sensed that this wasn’t how he intended things to be. I believe like he just wanted a fresh start, especially with having to pay me and so many other different individuals. a fresh start with Atlanta and a new chance.
“I’m not even angry with him for that. Although I appreciate everything he has given me and everything we have done together, in the end, this is business. For the sake of your family and yourself, you must take the necessary actions. I know that very well. On to the next one now. I’ll always take advantage of the opportunity, regardless of the quarterback, in my opinion. I’m going to make a constant effort to be the quarterback’s friend and ease his workload. Whether it’s J.J. [McCarthy], Sam [Darnold], or Kirk, it makes no difference. I’ll do all in my power to make it simple for them.
Through the first four seasons of his career, Jefferson caught 392 catches for 5,899 yards and 30 touchdowns; throughout the course of his new four-year contract, he will earn upwards of $140 million.
Jefferson may have his greatest challenge to date this year with the uncertainty surrounding the Vikings’ quarterback situation.
Even while the Vikings might benefit in the long run from developing McCarthy, it’s important to note that in his six years as a quarterback, Darnold—the former third overall choice in the 2018 NFL Draft—has only twice had a completion %.
But according to Jefferson, Darnold will more than hold his own this season.
Jefferson remarked, “I think Sam is doing a great job with just connecting and communicating with the players.” He is aware that we need to get to know him as he is the new guy. We need to establish that rapport and chemistry with him. It’s not like he’s a rookie to the league; he’s an older man. He is capable of interacting, conversing, and interacting with us.
Not only discussing about football, but also chatting about other topics. similar to what Kirk [Cousins] and I used to do. We really needed Sam, who has a more experienced and mature perspective, in there, and J.J. McCarthy to come in and pick his brains. I think J.J. will benefit greatly from it as well.
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