Vikings star Justin Jefferson gets a bold message from J.J. McCarthy ahead of 2025 NFL season

Justin Jefferson is set to kick off a new NFL season wearing the Minnesota Vikings jersey, and this year, more than ever, he’s hopeful about achieving great things with J.J. McCarthy by his side. The young quarterback also believes they can form a dangerous duo, and had high praise for his star teammate.

During a recent press conference, McCarthy opened up about what it means to play alongside the former LSU Tigers star, admitting he wants to spend as much time as possible with Jefferson to build strong chemistry and translate it onto the field.

“More reps, the better,” the talented QB stated to the press. “On the field, off the field, as much time as I can to spend around him. But he’s such a phenomenal talent, and once in a generation type talent that it’s more just you gotta not adapt your game to him, but you gotta understand like it’s going to take reps and reps and reps to feel his routes in and out of the break.“

He finally concluded: “But he’s just so special, so I just can’t wait to get to work with him every single day.”

Justin Jefferson #18 of the Minnesota Vikings misses a catch during the second quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on January 05, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

McCarthy fired up for what’s to come

J.J. McCarthy is finally set to kick off his NFL career after the serious injury he suffered ahead of last season. Speaking on the situation, the talented quarterback expressed his excitement about finally getting the chance to showcase his game alongside his teammates.

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“I know I’m ready to start,” McCarthy said to the press. “And I appreciate that question.” The QB was selected tenth overall by the Vikings in the 2024 NFL Draft, but his debut was put on hold after suffering a major setback early in the season.

“Because all the work that I put in and just the confidence in my skills and abilities. And just being able to do my job and simplify things to the best of my ability every single day. And just taking it one day at a time, one play at a time. I have a tremendous coaching staff, a tremendous group of guys around me that I can lean on and they can lean on me.”

Van Ginkel remains a Viking

With the primary goal of building a roster capable of competing at the highest level, the Vikings have secured the return of Andrew Van Ginkel, ensuring the linebacker will remain under head coach Kevin O’Connell’s direction for at least one more season.

“A raise in Minnesota: Vikings reached agreement today on a one-year $23 million extension that includes $22.4 million guaranteed for LB Andrew Van Ginkel, per his agents Drew and Jason Rosenhaus,” insider Adam Schefter reported via @AdamSchefter.