Justin Jefferson has enjoyed a busy offseason, which included a Formula 1 race in Miami and the Met Gala in New York, among other events, but the Minnesota Vikings' star receiver made sure to be at this week's voluntary organized team activities.
Jefferson skipped OTAs last year while negotiating his four-year, $140 million extension. That missed action made him realize how significant his presence was for the rest of the club. He's using this offseason to become a more vocal leader.
"I have some type of influence on this team," Jefferson said on Monday, via the Minnesota Star Tribune. "Whenever I have some type of encouraging words or just have that chance to bring up the team and break us down, that all makes a difference. Even just being here makes a difference."
Jefferson's attendance or absence hasn't affected his production. He's coming off his fifth-consecutive 1,000-yard campaign, catching 103 passes for 1,533 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2024. But with the Vikings breaking in new starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy, Jefferson believes being at offseason workouts is essential for Minnesota to get off on the right foot. The 25-year-old has also spent time off the field this offseason with teammates, including McCarthy.
"Having a little bit of extra time to really bond with the team, build that connection and, of course, getting those reps with the quarterback," he said, "it makes a big difference."
Head coach Kevin O'Connell said having Jefferson participate in voluntary offseason workouts pushes the entire organization to follow suit.
"If this guy, one of the best in the world at what he does, is pushing himself in May and June, I sure as heck better be doing the same thing," O'Connell said. "I think it's been huge. He's an energy igniter of the whole building. And I think he's come back with a purpose and a mindset."
The Vikings boast a roster capable of contending for a trip to the Super Bowl. The wild card is McCarthy. Jefferson is going to do everything he can to ensure the QB has a positive transition.
