Jefferson has gained more receiving yards than anyone else against man coverage since last season (876)

Jefferson leads the league with +169 receiving yards over expected on his 33 receptions this season

Jefferson leads the NFL in catches and yards on passes with 50% or lower completion probability since 2022

Catches two touchdowns

Jefferson caught six of nine targets for 85 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 21-13 win over the Panthers.

Analysis: Jefferson led Minnesota in all major receiving categories, helping the team clinch its first victory of the season. The star wideout first went uncovered for a four-yard touchdown during the second quarter, then made an impressive jump-ball reception for a 30-yard score to end the third. Although his streak of three 145-plus-yard games was snapped, Jefferson continued his spectacular start to the campaign with Sunday's pair of end-zone trips.

Another 149 yards

Jefferson recorded seven receptions on 13 targets for 149 yards and one touchdown in Sunday's 28-24 loss to the Chargers.

Analysis: Jefferson has posted nearly identical lines in all three games this season, gaining between 149 and 159 yards in each contest. His production Sunday was powered by four catches of more than 20 yards, the highlight of which came on a 52-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter when he caught a short pass over the middle of the field before out-racing the defense to the end zone. Jefferson briefly stayed down in the field late in the game, but it appeared to be just a cramp, per Alec Lewis of The…read more

Another massive output Thursday

Jefferson brought in 11 of 13 targets for 159 yards in the Vikings' 34-28 loss to the Eagles on Thursday night. He also lost a fumble.

Analysis: Jefferson finished with game-high reception, receiving yardage and target totals by a wide margin, putting together his second massive stat line in a span of four days. The Pro Bowl wideout wasn't on the receiving end of any of Kirk Cousins' four touchdown passes, however, although his final catch of the night, a 20-yard grab with 1:41 remaining, did get the ball down to the Eagles' five-yard line to set up a T.J. Hockenson scoring grab. Jefferson already has a 20-309 line through two games and…read more

Trademark numbers in Week 1 loss

Jefferson secured nine of 12 targets for 150 yards in the Vikings' 20-17 loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday.

Analysis: Jefferson's explosive numbers were thoroughly unsurprising, although the fact they came in a low-scoring loss was somewhat unexpected. The star wideout comfortably recorded game-high reception, receiving yardage and target totals, with the Buccaneers unable to find any answer for him. About the only blemishes on Jefferson's afternoon were the absence of a touchdown and the fact he was targeted just once over the Vikings' final two drives, which both stalled at three plays. Jefferson may be…read more

Contract talks tabled

Jefferson and the Vikings had preliminary discussions about a contract extension, but the parties didn't yet come to an agreement and will table those discussions until the offseason, Jay Glazer reported on the Fox Sunday pregame show.

Analysis: There wasn't too much urgency to the discussions yet for Jefferson, as he still has two years left on his rookie deal. However, that situation figures to take on a different tenor next offseason if there isn't real progress.

Unlikely to play Thursday

Jefferson isn't slated to suit up for Thursday's preseason opener at Seattle, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Analysis: Quarterback Kirk Cousins has a similar situation, meaning his connection with Jefferson won't be seen until Saturday, Aug. 19 versus the Titans, at the earliest. Meanwhile, first-round rookie wide receiver Jordan Addison will see the field Thursday, but it remains to be seen who will be joining him from the Vikings' receiving corps. Once Week 1 rolls around, Jefferson will be looking to build upon his 128-1,809-8 line on 184 targets in 17 games from last season.

No plans to skip camp

Jefferson, who was present for Tuesday's mandatory minicamp, plans to participate in next month's training camp regardless of whether he has signed a contract extension with the Vikings by then, Kevin Seifert of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Jefferson, who has two years remaining on his rookie contract, skipped the voluntary portion of the team's offseason program, but the 2020 first-rounder suggested that his contract situation was "not too much a part of" his decision to do so. Per Seifert, there are no indications that negotiations between the Vikings and his agent are acrimonious, as the two sides work toward a potential deal that could make Jefferson one of the highest-paid non-QBs in the NFL. This past season, the LSU…read more

Has fifth-year option picked up

The Vikings exercised Jefferson's fifth-year option for 2024 on Tuesday, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports.

Analysis: This was a no-brainer for Minnesota, but it would be a shock if the two sides don't have a long-term contract worked out well before the start of the 2024 campaign. This is likely just a placeholder keeping Jefferson tied to the Vikings for at least the next two seasons. Since being taken 22nd overall in the 2020 NFL Draft, Jefferson has 324 catches for 4,825 yards and 25 touchdowns and has yet to miss a game. Turning 24 in June, Jefferson is coming off Offensive Player of the Year honors last…read more

Takes home OPOY

Jefferson was named the 2022 NFL Offensive Player of the Year on Thursday, Field Yates of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Jefferson has taken a step forward in production in each of his three seasons in the NFL, and he finished 2022 with 128 receptions for 1,809 yards and eight touchdowns across 17 games. He consistently put up big receiving lines to reach those marks, surpassing 100 receiving yards in 10 games and 150 yards on four occasions. The Vikings will almost certainly pick up Jefferson's fifth-year option on his rookie deal that guarantees he will remain with the team through 2024, though it's also…read more

Big plays limited in loss

Jefferson corralled seven of nine targets for 47 yards in Sunday's 31-24 playoff loss to the Giants.

Analysis: Jefferson finished second in targets and receptions behind T.J. Hockenson (10-129-0), but he failed to record a reception greater than nine yards. While this wasn't a poor fantasy line, there were certainly higher expectations for the league's leading receiver in 2022. The 23-year-old finished the regular season with a gaudy receiving line of 128-1,809-8 across 17 games. Jefferson will enter the final year of his rookie contract looking to continue the steady improvement he has shown in each of…read more

Rested during second half

Jefferson caught four of five targets for 38 yards in Sunday's 29-13 win over the Bears.

Analysis: Jefferson's production came exclusively during the first half, as Minnesota opted to rest its offensive starters following halftime. The decision restricted Jefferson to his second straight game with under 40 receiving yards, a steep decline from his league-leading production. With the Vikings now slated to host a playoff game, however, Jefferson will strive to be back at his best the next time he takes the field.

May not play full game

Head coach Kevin O'Connell intimated Friday that Jefferson and other key starters on offense and defense may not play the entirety of the Vikings' Week 18 game in Chicago, Joe Nelson of SI.com reports. "We've got a pretty clear cut plan with how we want to go about the whole game, but we're going to go in with the expectation of our guys going and try to get off to a good start and play good football," O'Connell said.

Analysis: Minnesota is assured no worse than the No. 3 seed in the NFC playoffs regardless of how this weekend's games transpire, but since the Vikings will need a win over the Bears plus a Cardinals win over the heavily-favored 49ers to climb to the No. 2 seed, O'Connell may not have much incentive to expose key players to an injury heading into the wild-card round. While Jefferson and all of the Vikings' other starting skill-position players look poised to play at least one series, the uncertainty of…read more

Just one catch Sunday

Jefferson caught one of five targets for 15 yards in Sunday's 41-17 loss to the Packers.

Analysis: It was a brutal showing for Jefferson, one that likely cost him a chance to break Calvin Johnson's NFL record for receiving yards in a season, but the whole Vikings offense struggled after losing two offensive linemen to injuries early in the game. The team might prioritize the health of its stars in a relatively meaningless regular-season finale, so Jefferson may not see much of the field in Week 18 against the Bears.

Tops 100 yards again

Jefferson caught 12 of 16 targets for 133 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's 27-24 win over the Giants.

Analysis: It was another huge day for the NFL's receiving yards leader, as Jefferson reached triple digits for the 10th time this season while scoring his eighth TD. The third-year wideout is now 208 yards short of Calvin Johnson's all-time single-season record of 1,964 heading into a Week 17 road game against the Packers -- a defense he lit up for 184 yards and two touchdowns back in Week 1.

No limitations in practice

Jefferson (ribs/chest) wasn't listed on Tuesday's injury report, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: After Saturday's 39-36 win versus the Colts, coach Kevin O'Connell relayed that Jefferson suffered a "rib chest contusion" during the contest. On Monday, O'Connell noted to Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune an expectation that Jefferson would be able to practice all week ahead of Saturday's game against the Giants. With no limitations at all to kick off Week 16 prep, Jefferson appears set to resume his standing as the Vikings' top wide receiver.

No injury concerns

Coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday that he expects Jefferson (ribs/chest) to practice throughout the week as the Vikings prepare to face the Giants on Saturday, Ben Goessling of the Star Tribune reports.

Analysis: Jefferson got banged up in the Week 15 win over the Colts but continued playing after being checked out on the sideline. The star wide receiver isn't in danger of sitting out Saturday's game due to this latest bruise, but defenses will likely continue to play physically against Jefferson moving forward.

Suffers chest contusion

Coach Kevin O'Connell said Jefferson sustained a "rib chest contusion" during Saturday's 39-36 overtime win against the Colts, but the wide receiver is "feeling pretty good," Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

Analysis: The injury stems from a catch in the second quarter, after which Jefferson stayed on the turf for a spell before walking to the sideline under his own power. After getting checked out by the team's medical staff, he returned to action. At one point during the Vikings' second-half comeback, referees sent him to the sideline again to be evaluated for a head injury after taking a huge hit from the Colts' Stephon Gilmore, but Jefferson was able to reenter the game after that incident, too. Overall,…read more

Prolific in historic win

Jefferson caught 12 of 16 targets for 123 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's 39-36 overtime win over the Colts.

Analysis: Jefferson stayed down after a second-quarter catch attempt but walked off the field under his own power, per Kevin Seifert of ESPN, and soon returned to the game after being checked out for a chest injury. The Vikings failed in every phase of the game en route to a 33-0 halftime deficit, but Jefferson contributed to their historic comeback with an eight-yard touchdown catch early in the fourth quarter. He went into the blue medical tent later in the fourth to be evaluated for a concussion but…read more

Jaw-dropping numbers in loss

Jefferson secured 11 of 15 targets for 223 yards in the Vikings' 34-23 loss to the Lions on Sunday.

Analysis: Jefferson comfortably led the Vikings in receptions, receiving yards and targets on the afternoon, with the fact Minnesota had to go pass-heavy as the game went on naturally benefitting the star receiver. He logged a team-long 47-yard catch along the way, and he's now just one grab away from his second straight 100-yard reception campaign. Jefferson's first opportunity to build on his season-best yardage tally comes in a Saturday afternoon home matchup against the Colts in Week 15.

Scores sixth touchdown

Jefferson recorded seven receptions on 11 targets for 45 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-22 win over the Jets. He also chipped in two rushes for 11 yards.

Analysis: Jefferson was bottled up by the strong Jets' secondary for much of the day and held under 50 receiving yards for the fourth time this season. However, he managed a 10-yard touchdown reception midway through the fourth quarter to tally his sixth score of the campaign. Despite the relatively down performance, Jefferson continues to command targets at a tremendous rate, giving him an extremely safe floor.

Bounces back in Week 12 win

Jefferson secured nine of 11 targets for 139 yards and a touchdown in the Vikings' 33-26 win over the Patriots on Thursday night. He also completed his only pass attempt for 11 yards.

Analysis: Jefferson shared the team lead in receptions with Adam Thielen and paced the Vikings in yardage and targets. The star wideout's performance, which also included a six-yard touchdown reception with 10:40 remaining in the first quarter, was a major resurgence from his three-catch, 33-yard tally in the team's Week 11 blowout loss to Dallas. Jefferson has now eclipsed the century mark in three of the last four games and six of his last eight contests overall, a torrid stretch he'll aim to extend in…read more

Bottled up in blowout loss

Jefferson (toe) was held to 33 yards on three receptions (five targets) in Sunday's 40-3 blowout loss to Dallas.

Analysis: Jefferson entered the game hobbled due to a minor bout with turf toe, but he didn't appear to be limited while running routes Sunday. That's where the good news ends for fantasy managers, as the superstar wideout was shut down by the Cowboys' premier pass defense. Kirk Cousins (12-of-23 for 105 yards) had no time to throw in the pocket, effectively disrupting Jefferson's ability to develop routes downfield against coverage shaded his way. The 23-year-old was averaging 135.7 yards per game over…read more

Playing through pain

Jefferson will be playing through some pain due to his case of a 'mild' turf toe injury, Fox's Jay Glazer reported on their morning pregame show.

Analysis: Jefferson remains clear of the injury list and the phrase 'no limitations' was used earlier in describing his status, but just be aware that those two facts doesn't necessarily mean that he's fully healed either. It probably doesn't change rostering decisions on the star wideout, but it's worth noting that distinction.

No limitations expected Week 11

Jefferson, whose practice participation was managed this week while he contends with a mild case of turf toe, said he doesn't expect to face any restrictions due to the injury in Sunday's game against the Cowboys, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Jefferson said he picked up the injury in last week's overtime win over the Bills, but it didn't prevent him from making a highlight-reel, one-handed reception to convert a key fourth down late in the fourth quarter on his way to finishing with a career-high 193 receiving yards. Though Jefferson's reps were capped in practice Wednesday and Thursday on account of the sprained toe, the fact that he upgraded to full participation Friday and doesn't carry a designation into Sunday's game supports…read more

Cleared to play

Jefferson (toe) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Cowboys.

Analysis: A toe injury impacted his practice participation but never caused him to miss a session entirely, and Jefferson now takes the field against a Cowboys defense led by CB Trevon Diggs and pass rushers Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence. The 23-year-old is a top-3 play at wide receiver in any matchup, on pace to become the first player with 2,000 receiving yards in a season. With Miami's Tyreek Hill on bye this week, Jefferson needs 89 yards to retake the NFL lead.

Remains limited Thursday

Jefferson (toe) practiced on a limited basis Thursday.

Analysis: Listed as limited on Wednesday's estimated injury report, Jefferson remained that way as the Vikings got back on the practice field in preparation for Sunday's contest against the Cowboys. He told Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press on Thursday that his toe is OK, so his limitations this week appear to be precautionary. Friday's report will reveal whether or not Jefferson heads into the weekend with an injury designation.

Limited with toe injury

Jefferson is listed as a limited participant on Wednesday's estimated practice report due to a toe injury, Patrick Walker of the Cowboys' official site reports.

Analysis: Jefferson likely took part in the walk-through session but apparently would have been limited if the Vikings had held a real practice. He caught 10 passes for 193 yards and a touchdown in the dramatic overtime win over Buffalo this past Sunday, showing no sign of any limitations as he made big plays from the start of the game until the end. Jefferson will face another tough defense this Sunday against the Cowboys, assuming the toe injury isn't anything that prevents him from playing.

Almost 200 yards in signature win

Jefferson caught 10 of 16 targets for 193 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 33-30 overtime win over the Bills.

Analysis: Jefferson capped Minnesota's first drive with a 22-yard touchdown catch, but his best was yet to come. With the Vikings facing a 4th-and-18 down 27-23 late in the fourth quarter, Jefferson made a catch-of-the-year candidate by wrestling the ball away from a defender with one hand for a 32-yard gain. Jefferson added clutch catches of 14, six, 13 and 24 yards across the remainder of the fourth quarter and overtime, in addition to drawing a key pass interference penalty on Minnesota's go-ahead…read more

Eclipses century mark in win

Jefferson brought in seven of 13 targets for 115 yards and a touchdown and rushed once for 10 yards in the Vikings' 20-17 win over the Commanders on Sunday.

Analysis: Jefferson was in the familiar position of setting the pace in receiving yards and targets for the Vikings on the afternoon, and he checked in just two catches shy of tying newcomer T.J. Hockenson for the team lead in receptions. Jefferson also recorded his third touchdown grab of the season in the first quarter on a contested catch to cap off an opening drive during which he recorded four receptions for 48 yards overall, and his team-high 47-yard grab early in the fourth quarter led to a key…read more

Solid numbers in Week 8 win

Jefferson brought in six of eight targets for 98 yards in the Vikings' 34-26 win over the Cardinals on Sunday.

Analysis: Jefferson co-led the Vikings in receptions and paced the team in both yardage and targets, but he had an almost quiet performance by his lofty standards against a Cardinals defense that's proven adept at slowing down top receivers all season. The third-year star saw his three-game streak of 100-yard performances snapped in the process, albeit barely, but he'll have a solid opportunity to get back over the century mark against a Commanders defense that's given up plenty of chunk plays through…read more

Eclipses century mark in win

Jefferson brought in six of eight targets for 107 yards in the Vikings' 24-16 win over the Dolphins on Sunday. He also recorded a fumble.

Analysis: Jefferson paced the Vikings in receptions and receiving yards while co-leading the team in targets. The third-year star's biggest play of the day came at a critical juncture, a 47-yard catch and run down the right side of the field on the last play of the third quarter with Minnesota clinging to a 10-3 lead. Jefferson will carry a streak of three consecutive 100-yard efforts -- as well as a five-game touchdown drought -- into a Week 8 home matchup against the Cardinals following a Week 7 bye.

Big day against Bears

Jefferson caught 12 of 13 targets for 154 yards in Sunday's 29-22 win over the Bears. He also hauled in a two-point conversion and completed a pass for 23 yards.

Analysis: Jefferson dominated Chicago's defense, contributing in a wide variety of ways. The wideout caught nearly everything thrown his direction, giving him a second straight game with at least 10 receptions and 145 yards. For good measure, Jefferson also connected on a throw-back pass to Dalvin Cook early and dove in for a two-point conversion late. With three huge performances through five weeks, Jefferson's already elite stock is somehow still rising ahead of next Sunday's game versus the Dolphins.

Back on track against Saints

Jefferson recorded 10 receptions on 13 targets for 147 yards in Sunday's 28-25 win over the Saints. He added one rush for three yards and a touchdown.

Analysis: After consecutive down games, Jefferson returned to provide an explosive performance in London. He delivered long receptions, highlighted by gains of 41, 39 and 17 yards. However, he found his way to the end zone on a sweep by the goal line after going in motion pre-snap and taking a handoff. Jefferson has three total touchdowns across his first four games this season, as well as 29 receptions and 393 receiving yards.

Held in check again

Jefferson recorded three receptions on six targets for 14 yards in Sunday's 28-24 win over the Lions.

Analysis: Kirk Cousins distributed targets evenly among Adam Thielen, K.J. Osborn and Jefferson, which was one reason for Jefferson's modest production. He was also unable to deliver explosive plays, however, as his longest gain went for only six yards and he averaged only 2.3 yards per target. After a huge performance in Week 1, Jefferson has just nine receptions for 64 yards combined between his last two games.

Modest yardage total in loss

Jefferson secured six of 12 targets for 48 yards in the Vikings' 24-7 loss to the Eagles on Monday night.

Analysis: Jefferson once again paced the Vikings in targets and receptions while checking in a close second behind Adam Thielen's 52 yards for the lead in that category. The star wideout, like quarterback Kirk Cousins, saw a significant drop-off from his Week 1 numbers, but the fact he continued to be targeted at such a robust rate should be of comfort for fantasy managers. Another reason for optimism lies in a Week 3 NFC North home matchup against the Lions, which have allowed 580 yards passing to Jalen…read more

Scores twice, sets career high

Jefferson caught nine of 11 targets for 184 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 23-7 win over the Packers.

Analysis: Jefferson had a field day in his first game under new head coach Kevin O'Connell, being featured in a variety of ways as a pass catcher. In fact, Jefferson's yardage total marked a new career high. The star wideout began by scoring a five-yard touchdown before finding pay dirt again from 36 yards just before halftime. As he kicks off his third NFL season, Jefferson is already established as one of the league's premier players at his position, as he displayed once again Sunday.

Rested ahead of Week 1

Jefferson and other starters aren't expected to play in Saturday's preseason game at Denver, with coach Kevin O'Connell prioritizing health ahead of Week 1 against Green Bay, Andrew Krammer of the Star Tribune reports.

Analysis: The Vikings have a new coaching staff and playbook but largely return the same group of offensive players from last year. The top guys, including Jefferson, were all held out this preseason, and it appears all besides TE Irv Smith (thumb) will make it to the opener healthy. A difficult matchup awaits them with CB Jaire Alexander and OLB Rashan Gary headlining one of the NFL's more talented defenses, and the Vikings also have trips to Philadelphia and New Orleans within the first four weeks.…read more

DNP on Saturday

Jefferson didn't play in Saturday's preseason defeat to the 49ers, Lindsey Young of the Vikings' official site reports.

Analysis: Jefferson is among a number of Vikings starting skill-position players that have yet to suit up during exhibition season (along with quarterback Kirk Cousins, running back Dalvin Cook and fellow wide receiver Adam Thielen). While Jefferson doesn't necessarily need the reps to be ready for the regular season after racking up 3,016 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns in his first two pro campaigns, he will have one more chance to make an appearance before Week 1 next Saturday at Denver.

Not in line to play Sunday

Jefferson is not in line to play in Sunday's preseason opener against the Raiders.

Analysis: Other key Minnesota skill players who also aren't slated to play in Sunday's contest include quarterback Kirk Cousins (illness), running back Dalvin Cook, fellow wide receiver Adam Thielen and tight end Irv Smith (thumb). In that context, look for the focus of the team's coaching staff to be on evaluating those battling for battling for depth chart slotting ahead of Week 1.

Expects more pass plays this year

Jefferson told NFL Network's Patrick Clayborn that the Vikings offense isn't run-first anymore under new coach Kevin O'Connell, Kevin Patra of NFL.com reports. "Our offensive style, it's not a run-first offense anymore," Jefferson said. "I'm so excited in this offense."

Analysis: O'Connell previously was offensive coordinator in Los Angeles under Sean McVay, who likes to play uptempo and leans pass over run in close games. McVay and O'Connell also built a solid run game focused on outside zone, which shouldn't be too much of an adjustment for Vikings RB Dalvin Cook after years spent in Kubiak-led offenses centered on zone runs and play-action passes. A system similar to the Rams' also would seem to be a good fit for Jefferson, one of the few players in the league with…read more

Another 100-yard effort

Jefferson recorded five receptions on seven targets for 107 yards in Sunday's 31-17 win over the Bears.

Analysis: The Vikings possessed the ball for only 23 minutes in the game, which limited volume for all of their skill-position players. Even so, Jefferson tore through the Bears' secondary to record big gains of 45, 26 and 25 yards -- the first of which went for his 10th touchdown of the season. Jefferson concluded the campaign with 1,616 receiving yards on 110 receptions, solidifying his status as one of the top receivers in the league.

Sees 11 targets in blowout loss

Jefferson had six receptions (11 targets) for 58 yards in Sunday's 37-10 loss to Green Bay.

Analysis: The lack of Kirk Cousins (illness) really hurt the entire offense, as the Packers' defense keyed in on the Vikings' top offensive weapons with the unproven Sean Mannion under center. Jefferson still produced a usable fantasy line, but this was on the lower end of his usual production. The 22-year-old phenom now has 103 receptions, 1,509 yards and nine touchdowns through 16 games. The Vikings were eliminated from playoff contention, so it will be interesting to see if Cousins is able to return…read more

Tops 100 yards

Jefferson recorded eight receptions on 12 targets for 116 yards in Sunday's 30-23 loss to the Rams.

Analysis: Even with Adam Thielen back in the mix, Jefferson managed to record double-digit targets for the fourth consecutive game. He recorded a number of big catches that went for gains of 34, 21, 16 and 16 yards to notch his sixth 100-yard performance of the season. The only thing missing from the effort was a touchdown, though Jefferson had found the end zone in each of the team's last three contests. Jefferson will enter the team's Week 17 matchup against Green Bay only four receptions short of the…read more

Salvages night with touchdown

Jefferson brought in four of 10 targets for 47 yards and a touchdown in the Vikings' 17-9 win over the Bears on Monday night.

Analysis: Jefferson was seemingly set up for another busy night with Adam Thielen (ankle) sitting out the contest, but the second-year star had one of his more pedestrian performances. With Kirk Cousins frequently under duress and only dropping back 24 times overall, Jefferson was still targeted heavily but found the going surprisingly difficult against a short-handed Bears secondary. Nevertheless, he did extend his streak of double-digit target games to three, and his 12-yard scoring grab in the latter…read more

Finds end zone in win

Jefferson brought in seven of 15 targets for 79 yards and lost four yards on one rush in the Vikings' 36-28 win over the Steelers on Thursday night.

Analysis: Jefferson logged a team-high amount of targets with Adam Thielen (ankle) unavailable, and although he wasn't at his most efficient with them, he still found a way to make a sizable fantasy impact. The second-year wideout's 14-yard touchdown grab late in the first quarter pushed his season total to eight, a new career high. Jefferson has also now logged double-digit targets in four of the last five games, supporting the notion that Thursday's heavy workload wasn't strictly due to Thielen's…read more

Continues torrid pace

Jefferson corralled 11 of 14 targets for 182 yards and a touchdown Sunday, adding four yards on one carry and an incomplete pass on a failed trick play in a 29-27 loss to Detroit.

Analysis: Adam Thielen (ankle) was knocked out of the contest on the Vikings' first offensive possession, leaving Jefferson to shoulder the majority of the receiving workload. The 22-year-old continued his recent run of elite production, averaging an impressive 144.3 yards per game with three total touchdowns over his last four contests. Thielen's status for Thursday's matchup against the Steelers is currently unclear, but given the quick turnaround, Jefferson may be asked to carry the receiving unit yet…read more

Leading receiver in loss

Jefferson caught four of nine passes for 83 yards in Sunday's 34-28 loss to the 49ers.

Analysis: While it wasn't the cleanest performance, Jefferson still led the Vikings in receiving yards, although he took a back seat to Adam Thielen (two TDs on the day) in the red zone. Jefferson has topped 80 yards in seven of his last nine games, giving him a very solid floor to complement his sky-high ceiling heading into a Week 13 clash with the Lions.

Goes off against GB

Jefferson posted eight receptions (10 targets) for 169 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 34-31 win over the Packers.

Analysis: Fresh off of setting a new season high in receiving yards last week, Jefferson wasted no time in raising his personal high-water mark yet again. It was also the 22-year-old's first multi-score game of the season, bringing his totals up to 63 receptions, 944 yards and six touchdowns through 10 contests. The red-hot Jefferson will be the beneficiary of a favorable matchup against the 49ers next Sunday.

Huge day against Chargers

Jefferson caught nine of 11 targets for 143 yards in Sunday's 27-20 win over the Chargers.

Analysis: The second-year receiver set a new season high in receiving yards while leading the Vikings in yards, catches and targets by a wide margin, but it was Tyler Conklin who wound up on the end of both of Kirk Cousins' touchdown passes. Jefferson will look to keep rolling in Week 11 against the Packers.

Finds end zone in OT loss

Jefferson secured three of five targets for 69 yards and a touchdown in the Vikings' 34-31 overtime loss to the Ravens on Sunday. He also rushed once for 11 yards.

Analysis: Jefferson looked like he might be on his way to a prolific performance when he hauled in a 50-yard touchdown pass from Kirk Cousins early in the first quarter, but he disappointingly produced just a 2-19-0 line the rest of the way. Jefferson now is in a two-game semi-funk that's seen him post just a combined five receptions for 90 yards and the one score, and he'll have an uphill battle to snap out of it against a stingy Chargers secondary in a Week 10 road matchup.

Turns in dud on SNF

Jefferson had just two receptions (four targets) for 21 yards in Sunday's 20-16 loss to Dallas.

Analysis: This was Jefferson's worst performance of the 2021 campaign by far. He did get banged up at one point during the game but returned to action quickly. The lack of production was likely more tied to the fact that he had to deal with second-year phenom corner Trevon Diggs for the majority of the night as Minnesota's top outside threat. The second-year wideout has otherwise been a strong fantasy contributor this season, with 41 receptions, 542 yards and three touchdowns in the six games prior to…read more

Mixed results in win

Jefferson (ankle) had eight receptions (14 targets) for 80 yards while losing a fumble in Sunday's 34-28 overtime victory over the Panthers.

Analysis: Both of Minnesota's top wideouts were dealing with lower-body injuries during practice this week, but Jefferson and Adam Thielen (foot) were both cleared for action just in time for a wild contest in Carolina. The latter posted the better fantasy line for the first time in weeks, while Jefferson turned in his worst catch rate (57 percent) since Week 1 while also coughing up a fumble. It still wasn't a terrible fantasy day, all things considered, and the extra week of rest coming up should help…read more

Good to go

Jefferson (ankle) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Panthers, Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: There was some concern about Jefferson and Adam Thielen (foot) after both missed practice Wednesday and Thursday, but it turns out the Vikings offense is in good shape for Sunday with all 11 starters set to play. Jefferson has mostly seemed indifferent to matchups to this point in his career, but he does get a decent challenge this weekend against a Panthers defense that ranks second in DVOA against the pass (albeit with a downward trent in recent weeks).

Goes down as non-participant

Jefferson (ankle) was listed as a non-participant at Thursday's practice.

Analysis: Though Chad Graff of The Athletic reported earlier Thursday that Jefferson was present at the facility and expected to turn in a limited practice after he wasn't in attendance for Wednesday's session, the wideout ultimately went down as a non-participant on the Vikings' official report for the second day in a row. The Vikings may have just been exercising some extra caution with Jefferson, who expressed confidence that he'll be ready to play Sunday in Carolina. The extent of Jefferson's…read more

Plans to suit up Sunday

Jefferson (ankle) will return to practice Thursday as a limited participant and said he expects to play Sunday against the Panthers, Chad Graff of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Jefferson was surprisingly absent from Wednesday's practice due to the ankle injury, which he apparently picked up in last weekend's thrilling win over the Lions. Though the Vikings are taking things slowly with their top wideout heading into the team's Week 6 game in Carolina, Jefferson looks like he'll be ready to fill his usual high-volume role in the Minnesota passing attack come Sunday. Whether he carries a questionable designation into the contest will likely hinge on the extent of his…read more

Dealing with ankle injury

Jefferson missed Wednesday's practice with an ankle injury.

Analysis: The ankle injury is a new one for Jefferson, as is the foot issue that kept fellow wideout Adam Thielen off the practice field Wednesday. However, both played at least 90 percent of snaps in Sunday's 19-17 win over Detroit, and there hasn't been a report to suggest either injury is serious. All eyes will be on Minnesota's injury report Thursday, as the star wideouts are joined by running backs Dalvin Cook (ankle) and Alexander Mattison (shoulder), the latter of whom also missed Wednesday's…read more

Racks up 124 yards

Jefferson had seven receptions (eight targets) for 124 yards in Sunday's 19-17 win over the Lions.

Analysis: Jefferson was unable to extend his touchdown streak to four games, but he still posted a strong fantasy line while leading the Vikings in total receiving yards. The 22-year-old continues to evolve into a true No. 1 wideout, rewarding fantasy managers who bet on his ascension through five games. Next week's opponent, the Carolina Panthers, will provide a tougher challenge than the Lions, but they also are dealing with injuries to their secondary. Regardless, Jefferson is a must-start asset in…read more

Leads pass catchers in loss

Jefferson brought in six of seven targets for 84 yards in the Vikings' 14-7 loss to the Browns on Sunday.

Analysis: Jefferson looked like he was headed for another big day when he capped off the Vikings' opening 14-play drive with a 12-yard touchdown grab. He did end up pacing Minnesota in receptions and receiving yards for the day, and the 22-year-old now has a touchdown grab in three straight games. Jefferson will look to boost his overall production at the expense of a vulnerable Lions secondary in a Week 5 home matchup.

Tops century mark in win

Jefferson caught nine of 11 passes for 118 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 30-17 win over the Seahawks.

Analysis: The second-year wideout led the Vikings in catches, targets and yards in his best performance yet this season. Jefferson is averaging 10 targets a game through three weeks with the production to match, and he'll remain the most dangerous weapon at Kirk Cousins' disposal heading into a Week 4 clash with the Browns.

Grabs TD in Sunday's loss

Jefferson caught six of 10 targets for 65 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 34-33 loss to the Cardinals.

Analysis: The second-year receiver hauled in a 14-yard toss from Kirk Cousins midway through the second quarter, giving the Vikings a 20-7 lead they eventually squandered. Jefferson led Minnesota in targets on the day and tied Adam Thielen for the team lead in catches, but it was K.J. Osborn who led the club in receiving yards. Jefferson will look to put together another strong effort in Week 3 at home against the Seahawks.

Just misses TD in Week 1 loss

Jefferson caught five of nine targets for 71 yards and added an 11-yard pass in Sunday's 27-24 overtime loss to the Bengals.

Analysis: Jefferson came just shy of finding the end zone early in the fourth quarter, but he was ruled short of the goal line even after a Vikings challenge and watched Dalvin Cook punch it in on the next play. In addition to his contributions as a receiver, Jefferson also got a chance to throw the ball on a designed rollout, finding K.J. Osborn for an 11-yard gain. Osborn established himself as the team's third wide receiver with seven catches for 76 yards on nine targets in this one, and Adam Thielen…read more

Good to go for Week 1

Jefferson (shoulder) isn't listed on the Vikings' injury report Wednesday, Craig Peters of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: The Vikings held Jefferson out of their entire preseason schedule due to an AC joint sprain that he sustained in his left shoulder Aug. 6. He returned to practice a week and a half later, and he's now back to 100 percent on the eve of the regular season. Despite totaling just five catches for 70 yards in the first two games of his rookie campaign in 2020, Jefferson still finished with a ridiculous 88-1,400-7 line on 125 targets.

Held out of second exhibition

Jefferson (shoulder) didn't play in Saturday's preseason defeat to the Colts.

Analysis: Per Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune, Jefferson was among the Vikings listed as "not expected to play," but there were some positive signs pregame in the wide receiver's recovery from an AC joint sprain in his left shoulder. First, Jefferson took part in early warmups, according to Krammer, and he later donned pads and caught passes, Arif Hasan of The Athletic reports. Jefferson took part in recent practices for the first time since Aug. 6, including mixing into team drills, and…read more

Not expected to play Saturday

Coach Mike Zimmer noted that Jefferson (shoulder) is not likely to play in Saturday's preseason game against the Colts, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

Analysis: Playing it safe with the talented second-year wideout is a sound approach, so it doesn't look like Jefferson will see any exhibition snaps before Aug. 27 against Kansas City. That said, Zimmer indicated Jefferson, who suffered a shoulder injury in practice Aug. 6, is doing "good," which bodes well for the 2020 first-rounder's chances of being at or close to full strength for Week 1 action.

Participating in practice

Jefferson (shoulder) participated in some team drills at Monday's practice, Eric Smith of the Vikings' official site reports.

Analysis: Jefferson appears to have been limited in his return to practice, but in any case it's encouraging to see him back on the field handling team reps. The second-year pro sprained the AC joint in his left shoulder Aug. 6, but coach Mike Zimmer downplayed the severity of Jefferson's injury from the beginning. The timing of Jefferson's return to practice will provide him just under a month's time to ramp up his workload before Week 1. Of course, if Jefferson isn't back at full speed by the time…read more

Should be ready soon

Jefferson (shoulder) likely would be able to play this weekend if the Vikings had a regular-season game, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The Vikings have downplayed the severity of Jefferson's AC joint sprain, including head coach Mike Zimmer telling reporters Monday that he expected the wideout to have a "pretty quick" return to practice. Jefferson obviously won't suit up for Saturday's preseason game against Denver, but the Vikings don't seem to have much concern about his status Week 1. Jefferson even took some half-speed reps at Wednesday's practice, per Pelissero.

To return to practice soon

Coach Mike Zimmer said Monday that he expects Jefferson (shoulder) to make a "pretty quick" return to practice, Eric Smith of the Vikings' official site reports.

Analysis: Jefferson has been sidelined since landing on his left shoulder at the end of a catch at Friday's training camp session. He was eventually diagnosed with an AC joint sprain, which was accompanied by a "day-to-day" timeline. The Vikings likely will exercise the utmost caution with the second-year wide receiver, making it difficult to tell if the team will allow Jefferson to see any action in Saturday's preseason opener against the Broncos.

Considered day-to-day

Jefferson (shoulder) underwent testing Friday that came back clean, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Jefferson exited Friday's practice early due to a sprained AC joint in his left shoulder, but he appears to have avoided a significant injury. The 22-year-old may be brought along slowly in the coming days to prevent against a setback, but he's received encouraging news so far.

Sprains AC joint in shoulder

Jefferson sprained the AC joint in his left shoulder and is scheduled for additional testing, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: The wideout left Friday's practice early, walking off the field without moving his injured arm after a hard fall. The initial diagnosis alone would give him a shot to be healthy for Week 1, but the Vikings still need to make sure there are no additional issues beyond the AC joint sprain.

Injures arm in practice

Jefferson left Friday's practice with an apparent arm/wrist injury, Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Analysis: Jefferson reportedly clutched his left wrist and kept the injured arm down at his side while walking off the field with trainers. He's been busy at training camp, and Friday's injury occurred when he was targeted on three consecutive snaps.

Hyped for Year 2

Jefferson says he's "way more confident" than he was last year, Lindsey Young of vikings.com reports.

Analysis: Confident or not, the 2020 first-round pick was a smash hit as soon as he joined the starting lineup lineup Week 3. From that point forward, he averaged 5.9 catches for 95.0 yards on 8.5 targets per game, with seven touchdowns and a pair of two-point conversions in 14 contests. Adam Thielen scored 12 TDs in that same stretch, yet otherwise played second fiddle to the rookie, averaging 5.0 catches for 60.3 yards on 7.1 targets. Defensive coordinators now figure to treat Jefferson as the No. 1…read more

Sets record with 133 yards

Jefferson secured nine of 12 targets for 133 yards during Sunday's 37-35 win against Detroit.

Analysis: Jefferson attracted double the targets of Minnesota's second-busiest option Sunday, amassing his seventh 100-yard receiving day of the campaign and setting a new NFL record for receiving yards by a rookie in the process. The 21-year-old went without a TD catch in the season finale, though he finished with a total of seven scores on the year. Having also posted 88 catches and an even 1,400 yards, Jefferson secured an NFC Pro Bowl nod in his debut season. Adam Thielen remains under contract with…read more

Solid performance in loss

Jefferson brought in six of 10 targets for 85 yards in the Vikings' 52-33 loss to the Saints on Friday.

Analysis: The standout rookie continued to perform admirably down the stretch of his first pro season, pacing the Vikings in targets while checking in second in receptions and receiving yards in the contest. Jefferson has now posted at least 70 and as many as 135 receiving yards in six of his last seven games, a stretch during which he's also eclipsed the century mark on three occasions and recorded four touchdowns. He'll look to put an exclamation point on a spectacular debut campaign versus the Lions…read more

Big numbers in defeat

Jefferson brought in eight of 11 targets for 104 yards in the Vikings' 33-27 loss to the Bears on Sunday.

Analysis: The rookie added to his stellar first-year numbers with Sunday's team-leading yardage haul, comfortably pacing the Vikings in catches and targets as well for good measure. Jefferson saw a downturn to just 39 receiving yards versus the Buccaneers secondary Week 14, so Sunday's production represented a resurgence at a timely point for the LSU product's fantasy managers. Jefferson will look to carry over Sunday's momentum into a Week 16 road showdown against the Saints on Christmas Day.

Stymied in Week 14 loss

Jefferson secured four of eight targets for 39 yards in the Vikings' 26-14 loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday. He also caught a two-point conversion pass.

Analysis: The dynamic rookie frequently met his match in the form of an aggressive Buccaneers secondary Sunday, encountering plenty of tight coverage on his way to his lowest yardage tally since Week 8 against the Packers. Jefferson also saw a three game streak of at least one touchdown catch snapped, while his targets also dipped back into the single digits for the first time in three games. Despite the untimely downturn at the start of the fantasy postseason for many, Jefferson will look to atone in a…read more

Stays hot against Jags

Jefferson caught nine of 12 targets for 121 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-24 overtime win over Jacksonville. He added two yards on one rushing attempt.

Analysis: Jefferson's most impressive sequence came in the third quarter, as he drew an 18-yard pass interference penalty and scored a 20-yard touchdown on back-to-back plays to give his team a 19-16 lead. The rookie first-round pick led the team in targets, catches and receiving yards, topping second-place Adam Thielen by one target, one catch and 46 yards. Jefferson has four touchdowns in his last three games and five 100-yard performances in his young career heading into a Week 14 clash with the…read more

Pair of scoring grabs in win

Jefferson brought in seven of 13 targets for 70 yards and two touchdowns in the Vikings' 28-27 win over the Panthers on Sunday.

Analysis: As expected, Jefferson saw a sizable workload with Adam Thielen (reserve/COVID-19) sidelined for the contest. Jefferson easily paced the Vikings in targets while also drawing even with multiple teammates for the team lead in receptions. The rookie's pair of touchdown grabs -- from 12 and 10 yards in the first and fourth quarter, respectively -- pushed his season total to six, half of which have come in the last pair of games. Jefferson could be in for another busy day in a Week 13 matchup…read more

Elevates to No. 1 WR spot

Jefferson is slotted in as Minnesota's No. 1 wide receiver for Week 12 with Adam Thielen remaining on the reserve/COVID-19 list.

Analysis: Thielen's status seemed to be up in the air for Sunday's matchup against Carolina after he logged conflicting results on COVID-19 screenings during the practice week. The veteran was unable to gain clearance for kickoff, opening the door for Jefferson to potentially garner a massive target share Week 12. The rookie out of LSU sits with 45 receptions, 848 receiving yards and four touchdowns on the 2020 campaign, amassing that production via a workload of 5.9 targets per game. Carolina has been…read more

Could be No. 1 WR this week

Jefferson's teammate Adam Thielen isn't expected to play in Sunday's game against the Panthers, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: There's still a bit of uncertainty, as Thielen reportedly had a second test come back negative after a positive result on the initial test had him placed in the COVID-19 protocol. Jefferson could see extra targets if Thielen doesn't play, but the rookie might also draw more attention from the opposing defense.

Stays hot in Sunday's loss

Jefferson caught three of five targets for 86 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 31-28 loss to the Cowboys.

Analysis: Despite low target volume, Jefferson still produced big numbers thanks to a 39-yard TD catch late in the fourth quarter that gave the Vikings their last lead of the game. The rookie receiver is on pace for over 70 catches and 1,300 receiving yards heading into a Week 12 clash with the Panthers.

Another stellar showing

Jefferson caught eight of 10 targets for 135 yards in Monday night's 19-13 win over the Bears.

Analysis: Jefferson continued his dazzling rookie campaign, leading the Vikings in catches, targets and receiving yards. Although running mate Adam Thielen hauled in both of Minnesota's touchdowns through the air, Jefferson still topped 100 yards for the fourth time thus far, with Monday's total including a long gain of 54 yards on a third-and-long late in the third quarter. That set up a tying field goal, and the Vikings would take the lead on the next drive. On the back of another outstanding showing,…read more

Makes most of limited opportunity

Jefferson recorded three receptions on four targets for 64 yards in Week 9 against Detroit.

Analysis: Kirk Cousins only attempted 20 passes, limiting all the Vikings' receivers' chances to produce. Despite that, Jefferson managed to produce splash plays of 35 and 22 yards. The rookie has proved early in his career that he is capable of big production, though when the Vikings are working from ahead, opportunity will be minimal for all players involved in the passing attack. That will likely be the case again in Week 10, as the Vikings figure to engage in a slow-paced showdown with the Bears.

Little action in win

Jefferson caught three of four targets for 26 yards in Sunday's 28-22 win over the Packers.

Analysis: The Vikings' vertical game took a back seat to a huge performance by Dalvin Cook in this one, as the running back scored all four of Minnesota's TDs. Jefferson did tie Adam Thielen for the team lead in targets, and the duo should be more involved in Week 9 against a Lions defense that just gave up three passing TDs to Philip Rivers -- although none of the three went to wide receivers.

Rebounds with huge Week 6 effort

Jefferson hauled in nine of his 11 targets for 166 receiving yards and two touchdowns during Sunday's 40-23 loss to the Falcons.

Analysis: The rookie wideout resumes his dominant surge of production from Weeks 3 and 4, after enduring a down outing last Sunday night against the undefeated Seahawks. Seattle was able to contain the LSU product to just three receptions and 23 yards on five targets, a sharp decline from the 11 combined catches and 278 yards he produced over the preceding two outings. Jefferson had more than double the targets of typical No. 1 wideout Adam Thielen (five) during Sunday's loss to Atlanta, though that's…read more

Falls back to earth

Jefferson had three receptions (five targets) for 23 yards in Sunday's 27-26 loss to Seattle.

Analysis: Jefferson turned in a dud on Sunday Night Football after posting monster numbers over the past two weeks. The rookie first-round pick flashed his skills over the recent hot streak, but he still has room to grow before reaching the elite fantasy levels of his teammate Adam Thielen or the player he is replacing in Stefon Diggs. That said, Jefferson is the clear No. 2 wideout behind Thielen and has the potential to put up big numbers in the right matchups. Next week's tilt against a porous Falcons…read more

Proves Week 3 is no fluke

Jefferson caught four of his five targets for 103 receiving yards during Sunday's 31-23 win against the Texans.

Analysis: After a quiet Weeks 1 and 2 in which he produced five combined receptions for 70 yards, Jefferson has exploded the past two weeks to the tune of 11 total receptions for 278 yards and a touchdown. Jefferson was dominant on contested catches during his final year at LSU (nation-leading 92.3 percent contested catch rate, according to Pro Football Focus), and so far this year he has remained very reliable in tighter NFL windows, corralling 16 of 20 balls thrown his way. Next up is a Sunday night…read more

Breaks out in Week 3

Jefferson recorded seven receptions on nine targets for 175 yards and a touchdown in Week 3 against Tennessee.

Analysis: Jefferson recorded a 71-yard touchdown halfway through the third quarter, breaking free on a play action pass for his first career score. Perhaps more surprisingly, he led Minnesota with nine targets -- four more than Adam Thielen received. While his trip to the end zone was his biggest play of the contest, Jefferson also added receptions of 33 and 31 yards to add to his breakout performance. Jefferson had combined for just six targets across the first two weeks of the campaign, though he could…read more

Should see more targets, eventually

Offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak suggested Jefferson's role should increase as the season progresses, Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports. "You're going to see more and more of [Jefferson]," Kubiak said. "But much like Dalvin (Cook), much like Adam, you want to get touches for those type of football players. And with the amount of plays we've been running, touches are hard to come by."

Analysis: Kubiak is alluding to Minnesota's depressed volume, with the team running an NFL-low 96 plays through two weeks (no other team has fewer than 115). That number will regress to the mean -- at least to some extent -- but it's also true that nobody has stepped up as a viable No. 2 receiving option behind Adam Thielen. Olabisi Johnson is second on the team with seven targets, catching four passes for 80 yards. Jefferson also has been efficient with his limited opportunities (five of six for 70…read more

Team's top receiver in Week 2

Jefferson hauled in all three of his targets for 44 receiving yards during Sunday's 28-11 loss to the Colts.

Analysis: The first-round rookie wideout fielded 69 percent of Minnesota's offensive snaps Week 1 against Green Bay, but he came away with only two catches for 26 yards, even with the Vikings trailing by two possessions for the entirety of the second half. Jefferson produced a 22-yard gain just before the half Sunday against Indianapolis, but it only amounted to a Hail-Mary chuck for his team as the Vikings were left at midfield with one second on the second-quarter clock after spiking the ball. Working…read more

Pair of catches in debut

Jefferson secured two of three targets for 26 yards in the Vikings' 43-34 loss to the Packers on Sunday.

Analysis: The rookie first-round pick had a quiet first half, but he managed to get on the stat sheet with the Vikings focusing heavily on the pass after facing a sizable halftime deficit. Jefferson figures to up his role progressively in the offense as he builds more chemistry with quarterback Kirk Cousins and improves his grasp of the scheme, and he'll look to build on Sunday's modest numbers at the expense of the Colts in a Week 2 interconference road showdown.

Listed as No. 3 or No. 4 receiver

Bisi Johnson is listed as the No. 2 wide receiver on Minnesota's initial unofficial depth chart, with Jefferson listed as the No. 3 or No. 4 receiver, Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Analysis: Jefferson primarily worked with the first-team offense during scrimmages in the slot with Johnson as the No. 2 receiver opposite Adam Thielen, so this listing isn't a surprise. Still, the 22nd overall pick in the 2020 draft could overtake Johnson quickly in the offense to become the No. 2 receiver. However, there's also a chance he's limited to three-receiver sets early in the season, which the Vikings used infrequently last year.

Works with first-team offense

Jefferson worked as the slot receiver with the first-team offense in Friday's dress rehearsal scrimmage at U.S. Bank Stadium, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. He had four receptions for 22 yards, according to Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated.

Analysis: Jefferson also worked on the outside and did have a drop, The Athletic reports. Jefferson had been seen mostly working with the second-team offense during training camp, so Friday's scrimmage could indicate he's ready for a larger role in Week 1. However, there's also a chance he's limited to three-receiver sets early in the season with Bisi Johnson working opposite Adam Thielen in two-receiver sets (which the Vikings used far more frequently last year).

Works with first-team offense

Jefferson worked as the slot receiver with the first-team offense in Friday's dress rehearsal scrimmage at U.S. Bank Stadium, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. He had four receptions for 22 yards, according to Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated.

Analysis: Jefferson also worked on the outside and did have a drop, The Athletic reports. Jefferson had been seen mostly working with the second-team offense during training camp, so Friday's scrimmage could indicate he's ready for a larger role in Week 1. However, there's also a chance he's limited to three-receiver sets early in the season with Bisi Johnson working opposite Adam Thielen in two-receiver sets (which the Vikings used far more frequently last year).

Works with first-team offense

Jefferson worked as the slot receiver with the first-team offense in Friday's dress rehearsal scrimmage at U.S. Bank Stadium, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. He had four receptions for 22 yards, according to Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated.

Analysis: Jefferson also worked on the outside and did have a drop, The Athletic reports. Jefferson had been seen mostly working with the second-team offense during training camp, so Friday's scrimmage could indicate he's ready for a larger role in Week 1. However, there's also a chance he's limited to three-receiver sets early in the season with Bisi Johnson working opposite Adam Thielen in two-receiver sets (which the Vikings used far more frequently last year).

Works with first-team offense

Jefferson worked as the slot receiver with the first-team offense in Friday's dress rehearsal scrimmage at U.S. Bank Stadium, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. He had four receptions for 22 yards, according to Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated.

Analysis: Jefferson also worked on the outside and did have a drop, The Athletic reports. Jefferson had been seen mostly working with the second-team offense during training camp, so Friday's scrimmage could indicate he's ready for a larger role in Week 1. However, there's also a chance he's limited to three-receiver sets early in the season with Bisi Johnson working opposite Adam Thielen in two-receiver sets (which the Vikings used far more frequently last year).

Works with first-team offense

Jefferson worked as the slot receiver with the first-team offense in Friday's dress rehearsal scrimmage at U.S. Bank Stadium, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. He had four receptions for 22 yards, according to Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated.

Analysis: Jefferson also worked on the outside and did have a drop, The Athletic reports. Jefferson had been seen mostly working with the second-team offense during training camp, so Friday's scrimmage could indicate he's ready for a larger role in Week 1. However, there's also a chance he's limited to three-receiver sets early in the season with Bisi Johnson working opposite Adam Thielen in two-receiver sets (which the Vikings used far more frequently last year).

Works with first-team offense

Jefferson worked as the slot receiver with the first-team offense in Friday's dress rehearsal scrimmage at U.S. Bank Stadium, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. He had four receptions for 22 yards, according to Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated.

Analysis: Jefferson also worked on the outside and did have a drop, The Athletic reports. Jefferson had been seen mostly working with the second-team offense during training camp, so Friday's scrimmage could indicate he's ready for a larger role in Week 1. However, there's also a chance he's limited to three-receiver sets early in the season with Bisi Johnson working opposite Adam Thielen in two-receiver sets (which the Vikings used far more frequently last year).

Works with first-team offense

Jefferson worked as the slot receiver with the first-team offense in Friday's dress rehearsal scrimmage at U.S. Bank Stadium, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. He had four receptions for 22 yards, according to Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated.

Analysis: Jefferson also worked on the outside and did have a drop, The Athletic reports. Jefferson had been seen mostly working with the second-team offense during training camp, so Friday's scrimmage could indicate he's ready for a larger role in Week 1. However, there's also a chance he's limited to three-receiver sets early in the season with Bisi Johnson working opposite Adam Thielen in two-receiver sets (which the Vikings used far more frequently last year).

Works with first-team offense

Jefferson worked as the slot receiver with the first-team offense in Friday's dress rehearsal scrimmage at U.S. Bank Stadium, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. He had four receptions for 22 yards, according to Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated.

Analysis: Jefferson also worked on the outside and did have a drop, The Athletic reports. Jefferson had been seen mostly working with the second-team offense during training camp, so Friday's scrimmage could indicate he's ready for a larger role in Week 1. However, there's also a chance he's limited to three-receiver sets early in the season with Bisi Johnson working opposite Adam Thielen in two-receiver sets (which the Vikings used far more frequently last year).

Works with first-team offense

Jefferson worked as the slot receiver with the first-team offense in Friday's dress rehearsal scrimmage at U.S. Bank Stadium, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. He had four receptions for 22 yards, according to Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated.

Analysis: Jefferson also worked on the outside and did have a drop, The Athletic reports. Jefferson had been seen mostly working with the second-team offense during training camp, so Friday's scrimmage could indicate he's ready for a larger role in Week 1. However, there's also a chance he's limited to three-receiver sets early in the season with Bisi Johnson working opposite Adam Thielen in two-receiver sets (which the Vikings used far more frequently last year).

Works with first-team offense

Jefferson worked as the slot receiver with the first-team offense in Friday's dress rehearsal scrimmage at U.S. Bank Stadium, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. He had four receptions for 22 yards, according to Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated.

Analysis: Jefferson also worked on the outside and did have a drop, The Athletic reports. Jefferson had been seen mostly working with the second-team offense during training camp, so Friday's scrimmage could indicate he's ready for a larger role in Week 1. However, there's also a chance he's limited to three-receiver sets early in the season with Bisi Johnson working opposite Adam Thielen in two-receiver sets (which the Vikings used far more frequently last year).

Works with first-team offense

Jefferson worked as the slot receiver with the first-team offense in Friday's dress rehearsal scrimmage at U.S. Bank Stadium, the Dane Mizutani of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. He had four receptions for 22 yards, according to Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated.

Analysis: Jefferson also worked on the outside and did have a drop, Arif Hasan of The Athletic reports. Jefferson had been seen mostly working with the second-team offense during training camp, so Friday's scrimmage could indicate he's ready for a larger role in Week 1. However, there's also a chance he's limited to three-receiver sets early in the season with Bisi Johnson working opposite Adam Thielen in two-receiver sets (which the Vikings used far more frequently last year).

Working as No. 3 WR

Jefferson has made some big plays at training camp but is still working as the No. 3 receiver behind Adam Thielen and Bisi Johnson, Chad Graff of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Johnson is a 2019 seventh-round pick who produced a 31-294-3 line on 45 targets last season, so it's often been assumed Jefferson will step right in as the No. 2 option. The rookie first-round pick still has time to win that job, but it's also possible he's limited to three-wide formations at the beginning of the season. The distinction between the second and third receiver is particularly important in the Minnesota offense, considering TE Kyle Rudolph, TE Irv Smith and FB C.J. Ham combined for…read more

Removed from COVID list

The Vikings activated Jefferson (illness) from the reserve/COVID-19 list Tuesday.

Analysis: Jefferson spent roughly one week on the COVID list after either testing positive for the virus or having contact with someone who did before reporting to the Vikings. With the situation behind him, the rookie first-rounder can focus on locking down the No. 2 wide receiver spot behind veteran Adam Thielen.

Placed on COVID-19 list

Jefferson was placed on the Reserve/COVID-19 list ahead of the start of training camp Tuesday.

Analysis: Jefferson's placement on the list doesn't necessarily indicate he has COVID-19 as he could be under quarantine due to exposure to someone with the illness or a similar issue. The Vikings start training camp Tuesday, and the 22nd overall pick in the 2020 draft is a clear favorite to emerge as Minnesota's No. 2 receiver.