Justin Jefferson and the Minnesota Vikings were able to pick up a much-needed win in Week 14 action, blowing out the Washington Commanders by a final score of 31-0.
It has been a long year for the Vikings. Nothing has gone according to plan and following the win they hold a 5-8 record. After being one of the best teams in the NFL just one year ago, it has been a frustrating season for Minnesota.
As for Jefferson, the superstar wide receiver has struggled to produce up to his normal standard. That has been due to poor quarterback play compared to what the Vikings got from Sam Darnold last year.
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Against the Commanders, Jefferson ended up catching just two passes for 11 yards. While that could be frustrating for some players, he is just happy that Minnesota won the game.
Following the big-time win, Jefferson spoke out about not having much of a role during the game. He wasn’t frustrated at all. In fact, the opposite could be said about his reaction.
“I [would] rather win and not get the ball than lose and not get the ball,” Jefferson said. “As long as we win and this team coming in here with a happy smile on their face, and you know, we have that confidence to continue on and continue to next week and to better ourselves, and you know to make sure that we continue this feeling. That’s the main objective.”
That is exactly the kind of mentality that franchise players need to have. Jefferson is more about the team than his own personal numbers.
In 13 games this season, the 26-year-old superstar has caught 64 passes for 810 yards and two touchdowns. At times, he has shown clear frustration on the sideline during his team’s losses. That has led to rumors about his future with the Vikings.
While the outside noise has grown much louder this year about Jefferson, he doesn’t seem interested in leaving. He’s focused on helping Minnesota get back on track.
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Unfortunately, the playoffs are almost certainly not going to be a reality for the Vikings this season. Barring a miracle, Minnesota will miss the playoffs and focus on improving for the 2026 NFL season.
Next up for the Vikings will be a Week 15 matchup on the road against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday Night Football.
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