NFL star Justin Jefferson faces tough challenge as Vikings training camp begin with J.J. McCarthy

As the Minnesota Vikings enter a new era with J.J. McCarthy under center, the team has received some news about their best player, wide receiver Justin Jefferson. The training camp is the first NFL action the players have seen since spring, so some roadblocks may appear.

Speaking to the reporters on Friday, head coach Kevin O’Connell said that the All-Pro receiver is dealing with a “very mild” left hamstring strain. Hence, Jefferson won’t be out practicing until re-evaluated on next week.

This is not the first time Jefferson has dealt with harmstring injuries. During the 2023 NFL season, the Vikings star missed seven games due to a right harmstring issue. Even with all that time missed, Jefferson still managed to get 1,074 yards. This just shows how lethal he is while on the field.

McCarthy needs Jefferson to adapt properly to the NFL

Quarterback J.J. McCarthy suffered a setback during his rookie year as a knee injury took him out of action. As he prepares to finally establish himself as the Vikings starting signal-caller, he will endure tough challenges. Having Jefferson will help him a lot as he is a receiver that will made the QB’s life easier, even by making plays out of bad throws.

J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Minnesota Vikings warms up before the preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders at U.S. Bank Stadium on August 10, 2024.

Jefferson has five seasons in the NFL and has never been below 1,074 yards. Also he’s scored 5+ touchdowns every single year. He is unguardable. Jefferson averages an all-time record 96.5 yards per game, which puts him above the likes of Randy Moss and Jerry Rice. He is a two-time All-Pro and four-time Pro Bowler.

see also

Teddy Bridgewater’s net worth: How much money does the former NFL QB have?

What’s the status on Jefferson?

While the full extension of this injury won’t be known until next week’s re-evaluation, it seems like the team is optimistic about his availability. Minnesota expects Jefferson to fully recover and easily be able to play in Week 1.

However, given the harmstring history Jefferson has, Minnesota is being extremely cautious as they are looking ahead. Jefferson is undoubtedly one of the best 2 receivers in football, and having a new quarterback, the team wants to make sure Jefferson is there as a key weapon on offense.