Vikings Offense: Justin Jefferson speaks after quiet exit
The star receiver addressed his team's struggling stats and the quarterback situation following a loss to the Lions.
By James Mitchell ·
Justin Jefferson left the locker room in silence after the Minnesota Vikings lost 19-15 to the Detroit Lions last weekend.
The receiver skipped his postgame media availability for the second time in his career. Cameras captured him yelling on the sidelines during the game. Head coach Kevin O’Connell defended the reaction, stating that the players want to win and that he does not fault the frustration. O’Connell added that he sees the competitiveness in a positive light.
Jefferson spoke with reporters this week at the TCO Performance Center. He described his mindset following the team’s first loss of the season. The offense has struggled to produce points throughout the year. Jefferson said he is a competitor who does not want to lose, regardless of the season’s record.
The receiver expressed frustration that he often runs open but does not receive the ball. He called the group of players in the room very special. He stated that the team is wasting that potential by failing to execute the plays called. Jefferson acknowledged that starting quarterback Kyler Murray is still learning the system. Murray is dealing with a hamstring strain and will sit out the next game. Jefferson said he believes Murray is growing and getting comfortable with the offense. He added that Murray is capable of making the necessary throws.
Carson Wentz will start against the Buffalo Bills on Monday at U.S. Bank Stadium. Wentz said he understands Jefferson’s position. He stated that he wants to get the ball to Jefferson as much as possible without forcing throws. Wentz expressed confidence that Jefferson will receive passes during the upcoming game.
Jefferson has surpassed 100 receiving yards only once in his last 18 games. He currently has 28 receptions for 225 yards this season. He is not on pace to finish with 1,000 yards, which would be a first for him. The Vikings rank 27th in points per game at 20.0. They rank 29th in yards per game at 279.4 and 31st in offensive touchdowns per game at 1.6. Jefferson said the team must figure out the answer to these problems fast.
The Vikings are scheduled to host the Bills on Monday. Murray will rest while he recovers from the hamstring strain. Wentz will take the field as the starting quarterback.
