Justin Jefferson has recorded the most receiving yards on vertical routes in the NFL this season (649) while his 7 touchdowns rank tied for 2nd-most.

Justin Jefferson has gone in motion on 15.7% of offensive snaps this season, totaling 298 scrimmage yards and 3 touchdowns on such plays, each of which are career-highs.

Amik Robertson lined up against Justin Jefferson on 35 of his 43 routes (841.4% shadow rate), allowing just 3 receptions for 54 yards on 7 targets.

Disappointing in wild-card loss

Jefferson secured five of eight targets for 58 yards in the Vikings' 27-9 wild-card loss to the Rams on Monday.

Analysis: Jefferson's ordinary stat line Monday underscores how effective the Rams defense was versus Minnesota's air attack while getting to Sam Darnold for a remarkable nine sacks. The constant pressure combined with the extra attention paid to Jefferson made it difficult for the supremely talented receiver to get loose downfield for his trademark long gains, and although he finished tied for the team lead in both targets and receptions, his yardage total left plenty to be desired. Jefferson displayed…read more

Held in check Sunday

Jefferson was held to three receptions on nine targets for 54 yards in Sunday's 31-9 blowout loss to Detroit.

Analysis: Jefferson had an uncharacteristically poor game which featured several drops (one of which hit him in the hands in the end zone) en route to his worst catch rate of the season (33 percent). The superstar still finished with a stellar 103-1,533-10 stat line this regular season as Sam Darnold's emergence in 2024 helped lift his No. 1 wideout back to numbers fantasy managers were accustomed to during the Kirk Cousins era in Minnesota. Jefferson and the Vikings will have to lick their collective…read more

Paces Minnesota pass catchers

Jefferson recorded eight receptions on 11 targets for 92 yards in Sunday's 27-25 win over the Packers.

Analysis: Jefferson wasn't targeted until midway through the second quarter and had only two catches for 13 yards at halftime. However, he got going in the second half, with the highlight being a long 37-yard reception on which the yardage came primarily after the catch. Jefferson ultimately led the team in targets, receptions and yards, though his touchdown streak ended at three games.

Makes light work of Seahawks

Jefferson corralled 10 of 13 targets for 144 yards and a pair of touchdowns in Sunday's 27-24 win over Seattle.

Analysis: Jefferson dropped another standout performance that set a new high-water mark in receiving yards in addition to scoring his ninth and tenth touchdowns of the season. The superstar wideout put an exclamation point on the contest by taking the top off the Seahawks' secondary late in the fourth quarter for the game-winning score. After enduring a scoreless streak between Weeks 8 and 13, Jefferson has now rattled off five touchdowns over his last three starts. Managers will be excited to see what…read more

Another TD in Week 15 win

Jefferson brought in seven of 13 targets for 73 yards and a touchdown in the Vikings' 30-12 win over the Bears on Monday night.

Analysis: Jefferson brought in Sam Darnold's only touchdown pass of the night on a seven-yard catch with just over five minutes remaining in the first quarter. Jefferson tied Jordan Addison for the team lead in receptions and set the pace in both receiving yards and targets, a familiar position for the star wideout. Jefferson has eclipsed 70 receiving yards in four of the last five games and also has three total scores in the last pair of contests heading into a Week 16 road battle against the Seahawks.

Signature performance in win

Jefferson secured all seven targets for 132 yards and two touchdowns in the Vikings' 42-21 win over the Falcons on Sunday.

Analysis: Jefferson finished just a reception and receiving yard shy of tying Jordan Addison for the team lead in both categories, but he enjoyed a highly efficient afternoon during which he finished with his third-highest receiving yardage total of the campaign. Jefferson also crossed the goal line for the first time since Week 7 with 12- and 52-yard touchdown grabs in the second and third quarters, respectively. The standout receiver has at least 81 receiving yards in three of the last four games…read more

Makes history in Sunday's win

Jefferson caught seven of nine targets for 99 yards in Sunday's 23-22 win over the Cardinals.

Analysis: Arizona's pass rush sacked Sam Darnold five times on the day, and that pressure kept the QB from finding his top receiver much in the first half. Jefferson came up big down the stretch though as the Vikings completed a comeback from a 19-6 deficit. The fifth-year wideout blew past the 1,000-yard mark in the process, becoming just the fourth player in NFL history to reach that milestone in each of his first five seasons -- a club that includes former Minnesota star Randy Moss, as well as A.J. …read more

Quiet in OT win

Jefferson recorded two receptions on five targets for 27 yards in Sunday's 30-27 overtime win against the Bears.

Analysis: Sam Darnold ripped through the Chicago secondary to record seven completions of at least 20 yards, making Jefferson's line even more disappointing. He did have a 40-yard touchdown nullified late in the fourth quarter by offensive pass interference on an apparent pick play. Jefferson has now failed to reach 100 receiving yards in three consecutive contests.

Leading receiver in win

Jefferson brought in six of eight targets for 81 yards in Sunday's 23-13 win over the Titans.

Analysis: Jefferson led the Vikings in all receiving categories as he usually does, but he was left scoreless after both of Sam Darnold's passing touchdowns went to a pair of running backs. It was still a solid fantasy effort from Jefferson, who now has 59 receptions for 912 yards and five touchdowns through 10 contests. The superstar wideout is a clear-cut WR1 for Week 12 when Minnesota visits Chicago next Sunday.

Modest performance against Jags

Jefferson recorded five receptions on nine targets for 48 yards in Sunday's 12-7 win over the Jaguars.

Analysis: Jefferson tied for the team lead with nine targets, a mark he's now hit in three consecutive games. While opportunity wasn't an issue, Sam Darnold's accuracy was, as three of his passes to Jefferson were picked off. Darnold also targeted Jefferson primarily in short areas of the field, limiting him to a long gain of just 15 yards. While it was a down performance, Jefferson entered Sunday having topped 80 receiving yards in all but one contest for the season, and he should be projected to bounce…read more

Leading receiver on SNF

Jefferson hauled in seven of nine targets for 137 yards while completing his only pass attempt for 22 yards in Sunday's 21-13 win over the Colts.

Analysis: Jefferson posted his usual WR1 stat line in a winning effort, but he also contributed 22 passing yards on a successful trick play. The superstar wideout upped his season line to 67-783-5 through eight starts, showing little dropoff with new starter Sam Darnold this season. Jefferson remains a must-start asset in all fantasy formats heading into a positive matchup against the Jaguars next Sunday.

Eclipses century mark in loss

Jefferson secured eight of nine targets for 115 yards in the Vikings' 30-20 loss to the Rams on Thursday night.

Analysis: Jefferson comfortably paced the Vikings in receptions, receiving yards and targets on the night while generating his second 100-yard effort of the season. The catch total also was a season high for Jefferson, who had one of the highlights of the night for either club when he made a one-handed, contested juggling grab of 27 yards down the left sideline that took the ball down to the Rams' four-yard line. Jefferson next draws an enticing matchup against a vulnerable Colts secondary during a Week…read more

Finds end zone in divisional loss

Jefferson secured seven of eight targets for 81 yards and a touchdown and rushed once for three yards in the Vikings' 31-29 loss to the Lions on Sunday.

Analysis: Jefferson found the end zone from 25 yards out early in the third quarter, giving the Vikings some life after the Lions had scored 21 unanswered points in the second period. However, it was a relatively quiet day otherwise for the star receiver against a division rival he's already put up some elite numbers against on multiple occasions in his career. Jefferson now has at least 81 receiving yards in four straight games but hasn't eclipsed the century mark in any of them, a matter he'll look to…read more

Inefficient on 14 targets

Jefferson recorded six receptions on 14 targets for 92 yards in Sunday's 23-17 win over the Jets.

Analysis: Jefferson got off to a quick start, as he had three receptions for 33 yards on Minnesota's first offensive possession and had an additional catch for 28 yards before halftime. However, with the Vikings in control of the game for most of the final two quarters, he saw more limited opportunities and also struggled to connect with Sam Darnold. Though it wasn't Jefferson's most prolific performance, he now has at least 80 yards in each of his last four games and Sunday marked his first contest…read more

Finds end zone in win

Jefferson secured six of eight targets for 85 yards and a touchdown in the Vikings' 31-29 win over the Packers on Sunday.

Analysis: Jefferson was in the customary position of leading the Vikings in receptions, receiving yards and targets, and he was able to record his fourth touchdown in as many games to open the season via a 14-yard grab with just over five minutes remaining in the second quarter. The star wideout now has back-to-back eight-target games and at least 81 receiving yards in three straight contests heading into a Week 5 matchup against the Jets in London.

No concern about hand injury

Head coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday that the Vikings have no concern about Jefferson's availability for Sunday's game against the Packers after the receiver jammed a finger on his right hand in a Week 3 win over the Texans, Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Analysis: The jammed finger may have contributed to the drop that Jefferson had on one of his two targets in the second half of the 34-7 win over the Texans, though he produced well enough in the first two quarters (six catches for 81 yards and a touchdown on six targets) to satisfy fantasy managers. While Jefferson was sent for X-rays after the game, the scans revealed no fractures to any of his fingers. He may be dealing with some discomfort, but the issue shouldn't affect his playing time and usage in…read more

Finds end zone in win

Jefferson caught six of eight targets for 81 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 34-7 win over the Texans.

Analysis: It looked like the superstar wideout was headed for a huge day when he hauled in a six-yard TD strike from Sam Darnold on the Vikings' first drive, but the quarterback wound up spreading the ball around and finding four different players for his four touchdown passes. Jefferson still has a three-game TD streak to begin the season, and his eight targets Sunday were surprisingly a season high so far. He'll look to keep rolling in Week 4 against the Packers.

Avoids final injury report

Jefferson (quadriceps) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against Houston, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Analysis: As promised by the man himself, Jefferson will be out there Sunday as the Vikings try for a surprising 3-0 start. Fellow wideout Jordan Addison (ankle) has been ruled out, but coach Kevin O'Connell told Goessling on Friday that Addison should have a good chance to return Week 4 against Green Bay.

No concern for Week 3 availability

Jefferson (quadricep) remained a limited participant in practice Thursday for the second day in a row, but he said afterward that he "for sure" plans to play Sunday against the Texans, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Jefferson is tending to a bruised right quad in the aftermath of Sunday's win over the 49ers, but he said his body feels "great," and he's continuing to work with the Minnesota training staff to ensure he's in optimal condition by the weekend. A blowout win over the Giants in Week 2 and the injury in Week 2 have played a part in limiting Jefferson to six and seven targets in those respective contests, but he still ranks in the top five in the NFL in both receiving yards (192) and receiving…read more

Limited again Thursday

Jefferson (quadriceps) was a limited practice participant Thursday.

Analysis: Jefferson maintained his activity level from Wednesday's session as he tends to the bruised right quadriceps that he picked up late in the third quarter of this past Sunday's win against the 49ers. Both the wide receiver and coach Kevin O'Connell have expressed optimism in the meantime that the injury isn't serious, but Jefferson now has just one more session this week to prove his health ahead the weekend. In the end, Jefferson appears destined to have a designation for Sunday's game versus…read more

Logs limited practice Wednesday

Jefferson (quadricep) practiced in a limited capacity Wednesday.

Analysis: Meanwhile, fellow wide receiver Jordan Addison didn't practice at all, instead rehabbing his sore right ankle on a side field. Head coach Kevin O'Connell told Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune earlier Wednesday that the Vikings are hopeful Jefferson will be able to ramp up his activity level as the week goes on, but the quad contusion that he suffered this past Sunday against the 49ers may result in him carrying a designation for a Week 3 matchup with the Texans.

Goes through walkthrough

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said Wednesday that Jefferson (quadricep) was able to go through the team's walk-through practice, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Analysis: O'Connell has called Jefferson "day-to-day" due to a right quad bruise sustained during the Vikings' win over the 49ers in Week 2. Barring any setbacks in practice, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com notes that the star wide receiver seems to be trending in the right direction to play Sunday versus the Texans. Meanwhile, O'Connell said No. 2 wide receiver Jordan Addison (ankle) is "still in that day-to-day world."

Deemed day-to-day

Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday that Jefferson (quadriceps) is "day-to-day" and came into team facilities "feeling pretty good," Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Analysis: O'Connell seems optimistic about Jefferson's chances of being available Week 3 versus the Texans after the star wide receiver was forced out of Sunday's 23-17 win over the 49ers due to a right quad contusion. Through two games this season, Jefferson has piled up eight catches for 192 yards and two scores on 13 targets, shutting down any concerns about his ability to produce at a high level with Sam Darnold under center. Minnesota should provide another update on Jefferson's status by Wednesday…read more

Downplays injury

Jefferson downplayed the bruised right quadricep that he sustained in Sunday's 23-17 win over the 49ers, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports. "I'm not seriously injured," Jefferson said after the game. "So that's the main important thing. So it's just all about getting to the training room, making sure my body is right for next week, and I'll be ready to go next Sunday."

Analysis: Head coach Kevin O'Connell more or less echoed Jefferson's sentiments, noting that the wideout is "sore" but is "hopefully day-to-day" heading into the Vikings' next game Week 3 versus Houston. Though the Vikings seem optimistic that Jefferson will avoid an absence, he could still have his practice activity monitored carefully this week. The team will provide another update on Jefferson no later than Wednesday, when the Vikings will issue their first Week 3 practice report. Jefferson finished…read more

Has quad contusion

Coach Kevin O'Connell said after Sunday's 23-17 win against the 49ers that Jefferson suffered a bruised quadriceps in the contest, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: On the play that precipitated his departure late in the third quarter, Jefferson took a hit to his upper right leg that caused him to stay on the turf for a bit before going to the sideline tent and then locker room. O'Connell told Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com that Jefferson is "pretty sore," and "hopefully" the wide receiver will be day-to-day. As a result, Jefferson's status will be one to monitor closely as the Vikings gear up for a Week 3 matchup with the Texans next Sunday, especially with…read more

Hurts quad in Week 2

Jefferson suffered a quadriceps injury during Sunday's game versus the 49ers, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Jefferson took a hit to his upper right leg late in the third quarter and remained down on the ground before going to the sideline tent, and eventually, the locker room. At the time of his departure, his line read 4-133-1 on seven targets, including a 97-yard touchdown catch.

Exits Sunday's game

Jefferson left Sunday's game against the 49ers due to a leg injury, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Jefferson remained on the turf for a spell before making his way to the sideline tent near the end of the third quarter. He then went to the locker room. Prior to his exit, Jefferson recorded four catches (on seven targets) for 133 yards and one touchdown, a line fueled by a 97-yard score.

Finds end zone in Week 1 win

Jefferson secured four of six targets for 59 yards and a touchdown in the Vikings' 28-6 win over the Giants on Sunday.

Analysis: Jefferson had modest totals overall, but all three components of the star wideout's receiving line were team-high figures. The majority of his production actually came on a 44-yard grab, but the highlight of his fantasy day was a three-yard touchdown grab to cap off an 11-play, 99-yard drive that took up over half of the second quarter. Jefferson and new quarterback Sam Darnold showed good chemistry overall, and Minnesota's ability to dominate defensively made an overly aggressive game plan…read more

Unlikely to suit up

Jefferson and most other starters aren't expected to play in Saturday's preseason game against the Browns, Mark Craig of The Star Tribune reports.

Analysis: It sounds like the Vikings will use fewer key players than they did in their preseason opener, although Jefferson was also held out for that one. He's set to open the season with Sam Darnold as his starting QB after J.J. McCarthy's season-ending meniscus surgery put an end to any thoughts of a job battle.

Not expected to suit up Saturday

Coach Kevin O'Connell said Thursday that Jefferson likely won't take the field during Saturday's preseason game against the Raiders.

Analysis: Jefferson is fully healthy, per Alec Lewis of The Athletic, but with all he's proven in his excellent career, there Vikings simply believe there's no need to expose him to unnecessary game reps. Sam Darnold is slated to start Saturday's exhibition contest, with 10th overall pick J.J. McCarthy also in line to receive notable reps, but neither is expected to yet have an opportunity to demonstrate their chemistry with the Vikings' No. 1 receiver.

Signing four-year extension

Jefferson reached agreement with the Vikings on Monday on a four-year contract extension, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Schefter and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network both report Jefferson's deal as a four-year, $140 million contract with $110 million guaranteed, giving the wideout the new record for average annual value ($35 million) among non-quarterbacks. He'll turn 25 years old later this month and already has 5,899 career receiving yards, with his average of 98.3 per game easily being the all-time record (Calvin Johnson is second at 86.1). Jefferson will enter the 2024 season without Kirk Cousins as his…read more

Absent for start of OTAs

Jefferson is not present for the start of OTAs on Monday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Jefferson is amid contract negotiations with Minnesota, so it won't be surprising if he doesn't show up for voluntary workouts with the team. The Vikings' mandatory minicamp won't begin until June 4, at which point Jefferson will incur fines if he isn't in attendance. The star wideout currently is heading into the final year of his rookie contract with a fifth-year option that will pay him $19.7 million. In just 10 games last season, Jefferson still managed to surpass 1,000 receiving yards, his…read more

Stellar performance to end season

Jefferson brought in 12 of 14 targets for 192 yards and a touchdown and rushed once for minus-12 yards in the Vikings' 30-20 loss the Lions on Sunday.

Analysis: The Vikings were eliminated from postseason contention with the loss, but Jefferson certainly finished off the season in grand fashion. The ultra-talented wideout terrorized the Lions secondary throughout the afternoon, comfortably leading Minnesota in receptions, receiving yards and targets while also recording a nifty 38-yard touchdown grab. Jefferson's totals were also season highs across the board, and with the prolific afternoon, he finishes the season with 1,074 receiving yards in only 10…read more

Poor QB play affects line

Jefferson finished with five receptions on 10 targets for 59 yards in Sunday's 33-10 loss to the Packers.

Analysis: The Vikings started Jaren Hall at quarterback against the Packers in a desperate attempt to save the team's fleeting playoff hopes. The move backfired after the rookie turned the ball over twice before halftime, prompting a switch back to Nick Mullens in the second half. Jefferson's pedestrian fantasy line was the result of the Vikings' debacle at the QB position following Kirk Cousins' (Achilles) season-ending injury. The star wideout did see 10 targets for the third week in a row while pacing…read more

Goes off for 141 yards plus score

Jefferson corralled six of 10 targets for 141 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 30-24 loss to the Lions.

Analysis: Jefferson put it all together in his third game back from injured reserve, posting a game-high 141 yards while catching his first touchdown since returning from the seven-game layoff. The superstar wideout also registered 10 targets for the second week in a row. That number could inflate in the coming weeks if either of T.J. Hockenson (knee) or Jordan Addison (ankle) is forced to miss time after both Vikings players left Sunday's contest with lower-body injuries. Jefferson should remain the…read more

Building back momentum

Jefferson caught seven passes for 84 yards on 10 targets in the 27-24 overtime loss to the Bengals on Saturday.

Analysis: Jefferson saw rookie fellow wideout Jordan Addison lead the Vikings with 111 yards and two touchdowns on six catches, but Addison saw only six targets to Jefferson's 10. It was always a certainty that Jefferson would eventually get rolling again once he shook off the injury rust, and if he keeps seeing 10 targets per game then he will break out again very soon, perhaps as soon as against Detroit's mediocre cornerbacks in Week 16.

Suiting up Saturday

Jefferson (chest) is listed as active for Saturday's game at Cincinnati.

Analysis: This past Sunday against the Raiders, the Vikings' star wideout was able to return from a seven-game absence due a strained right hamstring; however, a chest injury forced Jefferson out of Week 14 action after just 13 snaps on offense. Following a precautionary trip to a hospital in Las Vegas that revealed no serious injury issues, Jefferson was deemed a limited practice participant both Tuesday and Wednesday before being listed as a full participant Thursday and then listed questionable for…read more

Status in question for Saturday

Jefferson (chest) is listed as questionable for Saturday's game at Cincinnati.

Analysis: Jefferson returned from a seven-game absence this past Sunday in Las Vegas after recovering from a strained right hamstring, only to injure his chest on his 13th offensive snap. A visit to a local hospital was ordered up for further evaluation of the issue, but he was able to travel back to Minnesota with the team and was called day-to-day by coach Kevin O'Connell on Monday, per Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com. While Jefferson operated with a cap on his reps during Week 15 prep, he also told Seifert…read more

Remains limited Wednesday

Jefferson (chest) was a limited participant at practice Wednesday, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: In his return from a seven-game absence this past Sunday at Las Vegas, Jefferson lasted just 13 offensive snaps before taking a big hit from Raiders safety Marcus Epps in the first half. Jefferson didn't return to the game, and after being taken to a local hospital to have his chest injury evaluated further, he was able to travel with his teammates back to Minnesota following the 3-0 victory. On Monday, head coach Kevin O'Connell called Jefferson "day-to-day," according to Kevin Seifert of…read more

Expecting normal workload Saturday

Jefferson (chest) said Wednesday that he expects to play in Saturday's game against the Bengals and shouldn't have any restrictions, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune relays that testing at a local hospital ruled out broken ribs and internal bleeding after Jefferson was forced out early in the Vikings' 3-0 win over the Raiders on Sunday. Jefferson was listed as a limited participant on Tuesday's estimated practice report, but he doesn't seem worried about missing the Vikings' upcoming game .

Limited Tuesday

Jefferson (chest) was listed as a limited participant on Tuesday's practice estimate.

Analysis: Head coach Kevin O'Connell labeled Jefferson as day-to-day after the receiver exited Sunday's 3-0 win over the Raiders with a chest injury, and it's encouraging news that he wasn't estimated as a non-participant. More clarity on Jefferson's status for Saturday's game against the Bengals will come as the week progresses, but if the wideout does play, he'll be on the receiving end of passes from quarterback Nick Mullens, who has been named the Vikings' Week 15 starter.

Deemed day-to-day by coach

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell labeled Jefferson (chest) as day-to-day Monday, adding that Jefferson has a "good chance" to play Saturday against the Bengals, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Jefferson's participation in practice this week will bear monitoring, but O'Connell's comments are the latest bit of encouraging news regarding the chest injury the wideout suffered in Sunday's 3-0 win over the Raiders. Though Jefferson was taken to the hospital as a precaution, he traveled home with the team and may avoid missing any further action. O'Connell didn't name a starting quarterback for Saturday's game, so if Jefferson plays, it remains to be seen whether Nick Mullens or Joshua…read more

Avoids severe injury

Coach Kevin O'Connell said after Sunday's 3-0 win over the Raiders that Jefferson (chest), who was forced out of the contest in the first half, avoided a serious injury, Kevin Seifert of ESPN reports.

Analysis: O'Connell said, "It looks like [Jefferson] avoided any significant thing there," but that it remains to be seen whether the star wideout will be available Week 15 versus the Bengals. Sunday marked Jefferson's first game back from IR due to a hamstring injury suffered Week 5, but a hit from Raiders safety Marcus Epps resulted in him being taken to the hospital as a precaution. While Jefferson was able to travel home with the team and has been cleared of any serious internal injuries, his status…read more

Traveling home with team

Jefferson (chest) has been released from the hospital and will travel home with the Vikings on Sunday, per coach Kevin O'Connell, Ben Goessling of the Star Tribune reports.

Analysis: Jefferson was taken to the hospital as a precaution after exiting in the first half of Sunday's 3-0 win over the Raiders due to what O'Connell described as an internal chest injury. The star wide receiver had been on injured reserve since Week 5 due to a hamstring injury, and while it's encouraging that Jefferson will fly home with the team, he could be in danger of missing additional action due to this new injury.

Won't return Sunday

Jefferson (chest) won't return to Sunday's game against the Raiders.

Analysis: Per Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune, Jefferson has been taken to a local hospital as a precaution. Jefferson thus finishes his first game back from IR with two catches on three targets for 27 yards. In his absence for the remainder of Sunday's contest, Jordan Addison, K.J. Osborn and Brandon Powell are next up for the Vikings' WR snaps.

Exits Sunday's game

Jefferson was forced out of Sunday's game against the Raiders with a first-half chest injury.

Analysis: Prior to his departure from the contest in his first game back since coming off an IR stint due to a hamstring injury, Jefferson caught two of his three targets for 27 yards. In his absence, Jordan Addison, K.J. Osborn and Brandon Powell are slated to lead the Vikings' WR corps versus Las Vegas.

Off injury report, will play Sunday

Jefferson (hamstring) has been removed from the Vikings' injury report and will face no restrictions in his return to game action Sunday versus the Raiders, Dane Mizutani of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

Analysis: After practicing in a limited fashion for three straight weeks, Jefferson was activated from injured reserve during the Vikings' Week 13 bye, so the standout receiver was fully expected to return to the lineup in Week 14. Jefferson cleared up any lingering concern about the health of his hamstring by turning in a trio of full practices this week, setting him up to play his usual 90-plus-percent snap share this Sunday. For just the second game in his career, however, Jefferson will be catching…read more

Practices in full Wednesday

Jefferson (hamstring) practiced fully Wednesday.

Analysis: Prior to getting activated from injured reserve last Tuesday, Jefferson was contained to limited sessions during the entirety of his 21-day practice window. With his ability to handle all activity to begin Week 14 prep, he appears to have put the hamstring issue that he sustained Week 5 behind him. Jefferson thus will put an end to a seven-game absence Sunday at Las Vegas, whose defense has allowed the seventh-highest catch rate (67.1 percent) to opposing wide receivers this season.

Off IR, should play after bye week

The Vikings reinstated Jefferson (hamstring) from injured reserve Tuesday.

Analysis: Jefferson was designated for return from IR on Nov. 8 after he missed the required four games due to a right hamstring strain, but he then proceeded to miss the Vikings' ensuing three contests. According to Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune, head coach Kevin O'Connell indicated that the star wideout was close to playing Monday, but with a bye on tap in Week 13, the Vikings ultimately erred on the side of caution. Since Jefferson's evaluation window was set to close Tuesday, the…read more

Ruled out for Week 12

Jefferson (hamstring) has been downgraded to out for Monday's game against the Bears.

Analysis: Jefferson officially remains on injured reserve and will look to make his return Week 14 against the Raiders following Minnesota's Week 13 bye. The Vikings will likely lean on the trio of Jordan Addison, K.J. Osborn and slot man Brandon Powell to serve as their main options at receiver versus Chicago.

Not to be activated vs. Bears

The Vikings aren't expected to activate Jefferson (hamstring) from injured reserve for Monday's game against Chicago, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The Vikings will continue to take a cautious approach to the star wide receiver's recovery, with a bye week coming up after Monday's contest. Jefferson will wind up missing his seventh consecutive game, though the expectation is that he will resume practicing fully after the bye and be 100 percent healthy for a Week 14 road game in Las Vegas. Assuming Jefferson isn't activated from IR ahead of Monday's 4:00 p.m. ET deadline to do so, Jordan Addison, K.J. Osborn and T.J. Hockenson will be in…read more

Looking unlikely to play Monday

Jefferson (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Bears but is considered unlikely to be activated from injured reserve ahead of the Week 12 contest, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Since being designated for return from IR on Nov. 8, Jefferson has been listed as a limited participant in the Vikings' ensuing nine practices. Jefferson's lack of progression in terms of practice activity doesn't seem to be the result of any unexpected setbacks, as the wideout said this week that he's been able to run full speed during portions of those workouts. Additionally, head coach Kevin O'Connell said Saturday that Jefferson "took part in some team reps." Even so, the Vikings look like…read more

Gets questionable tag

Jefferson (hamstring) is considered questionable for Monday's matchup with the Bears, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: No surprise here, as Jefferson has practiced in limited fashion all week. Both he and the Vikings have been cautious in their approach to his return, as they do not want to rush him back before his health is up to par. Either way, the Vikings have until Monday afternoon to decide whether to activate the star wideout (he was designated to return from injured reserve Nov. 8) ahead of the team's Week 12 contest.

Remains limited in practice

Jefferson (hamstring) was a limited practice participant Friday and said he's not sure if he will play Monday against the Bears, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Jefferson said his recovery is going well and noted that he's been clocked at top speeds during practice, but he also reiterated that he and the team are on the same page about taking a cautious approach. He's been listed as limited for every practice since the Vikings designated him Nov. 8 to return from injured reserve -- a move that opened a three-week window to activate Jefferson to the roster. The window closes a few days after Minnesota's Week 12 contest, so any transaction returning…read more

Another limited listing

Jefferson (hamstring) was listed as limited on Thursday's injury report, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: As he has been since the Vikings designated him for return from injured reserve on Nov. 8, Jefferson remains limited on the team's injury report. Coach Kevin O'Connell told Lewis on Wednesday that Jefferson "is getting closer. He is feeling really, really good. ... We're not going to allow outside circumstances of the team" determine the decision to activate the wide receiver from IR. Minnesota doesn't need to do so until Monday afternoon in order for him to be available against the Bears in…read more

Uncertain to play Week 12

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday that he's viewing Jefferson (hamstring) as "questionable" for the team's Week 12 game against the Bears, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: The Vikings host the Bears in the Monday night game Week 12, so the team will still have a full seven days before deciding whether Jefferson is ready to put an end to his six-game absence. The wideout resumed practicing with the team Nov. 8, but he remains on injured reserve and will have to be added back to the 53-man roster by Nov. 29 in order to be eligible to play again this season. Jefferson has been listed as a limited participant in all of his practice appearances to date, and though he…read more

Not coming off IR for Week 11

The Vikings won't activate Jefferson (hamstring) from injured reserve Saturday, ruling him out for Sunday's game against Denver, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Jefferson has been a limited participant in practice since the Vikings designated him for return last Wednesday, but the star wideout still isn't ready to return to game action. His next chance to return to action will come Week 12 against the Bears on Nov. 27, after which Minnesota will have a bye. If the team still isn't 100 percent certain about Jefferson's health by Week 12, the Vikings could have additional incentive to keep him off the 53-man roster for another game. In any case, Jordan…read more

Questionable for Week 11

Jefferson (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Denver.

Analysis: Per Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com, Jefferson remained limited at Friday's practice, as he has been since the Vikings designated him for return from injured reserve last Wednesday. The team didn't activate him Week 10, and while he's a bit closer to game action than he was a week ago, coach Kevin O'Connell implied that Jefferson isn't likely to be available this weekend. Still, Minnesota will have until Saturday afternoon to get Jefferson back on the active roster ahead of Sunday's contest. If…read more

Stays limited at practice

Jefferson (hamstring) was a limited practice participant Thursday.

Analysis: Jefferson continues to log capped sessions since the Vikings designated him for return from injured reserve last Wednesday. After coach Kevin O'Connell told Alec Lewis of The Athletic this Wednesday that Jefferson was slated to up his practice reps, the wide receiver himself said one day later that his main focus is increasing the endurance in his recovering right hamstring, per Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune. "Just making sure that after work, I'm not too sore and achy,"…read more

Officially limited Wednesday

Jefferson (hamstring) practiced on a limited basis Wednesday.

Analysis: According to Alec Lewis of The Athletic, head coach Kevin O'Connell asserted earlier Wednesday that Jefferson was in line to increase his practice workload this week, but the wide receiver maintained his listed activity level from Week 10 prep. He's entered his second week of a 21-day window in which to be activated from injured reserve, but as O'Connell noted Wednesday, the Vikings remain in the evaluation phase as it pertains to Jefferson's return to action. Jefferson thus will use Thursday…read more

Ramping up activity level Wednesday

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said Wednesday that Jefferson (hamstring) will "do a little bit more today" than he did last week, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports. "We'll see how he responds to that," O'Connell added. "A little bit more [Thursday]. We're in that day-to-day, ramping-him-up phase. We'll determine if it's possible at all to have him for this weekend."

Analysis: After the Vikings designated him for return from injured reserve last Wednesday, Jefferson practiced in a limited fashion all week before the team deemed him questionable on its final Week 10 injury report. Ultimately, he wasn't activated by Saturday's deadline in order to have a chance to play this past Sunday against the Saints. This time around, Jefferson is increasing his on-field work to begin Week 11 prep, but it's unclear if he'll be able to make enough progress to be available for…read more

Not cleared for Sunday

Jefferson (hamstring) wasn't activated from injured reserve Saturday and won't be available for Sunday's game against the Saints, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Head coach Kevin O'Connell tipped his hand about Jefferson's status earlier this week, when he suggested it would be "a little aggressive" for the receiver to play Week 10 when first eligible to return from IR. Though Jefferson was able to practice in a limited fashion this week and had been listed as questionable heading into the weekend, he'll ultimately miss his fifth consecutive game. Jordan Addison and Brandon Powell will likely play prominent roles Sunday, especially if wideout K.J.…read more

Getting questionable tag

Jefferson (hamstring) will be listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Saints, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Analysis: Wideout K.J. Osborn (concussion) and tight end T.J. Hockenson (ribs) are also questionable, potentially leaving quarterback Joshua Dobbs with a depleted group of pass catchers in his first start for the Vikings. Head coach Kevin O'Connell said Wednesday that it would be "a little aggressive" for Jefferson to play this Sunday, but the star wideout apparently showed enough in practice to at least make it a consideration. The Vikings need to reinstate Jefferson to the active roster by 4 p.m. ET on…read more

Remains limited at practice

Jefferson (hamstring) was limited at practice Thursday.

Analysis: Jefferson now has back-to-back capped sessions under his belt since the Vikings designated him for return from injured reserve Wednesday. It's a good enough sign that a return to action is on the horizon from the strained right hamstring that he suffered Week 5, but when exactly he'll be cleared remains to be seen. Jefferson told Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com on Thursday that he doesn't "want to go out there at 80 or 90 percent and have the chance of hurting it again." That comment followed one…read more

Limited in return to practice

Jefferson (hamstring) practiced in a limited fashion Wednesday after the Vikings designated him for return from injured reserve.

Analysis: In his first on-field work since straining his right hamstring during a Week 5 loss to the Chiefs, Jefferson unsurprisingly operated with a cap on his reps. Head coach Kevin O'Connell told Alec Lewis of The Athletic on Wednesday in that he thinks Jefferson being ready to play Sunday against the Saints would "probably be a little aggressive," but the Vikings aren't yet ruling out the receiver from putting an end to his four-game absence this weekend. Jefferson will have two more sessions this…read more

Not expected to play this week

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell suggested Wednesday that Jefferson (hamstring) isn't likely to play Sunday against the Saints, despite being designated for return from injured reserve, Andrew Siciliano of NFL Network reports. "I think that would be a little aggressive," O'Connell said, when asked about Jefferson playing Week 10.

Analysis: Jefferson will resume practicing this week, but the Vikings would still need to activate him from IR before 4 p.m. ET on Saturday in order for him to be eligible to play Sunday. At this stage of the week, O'Connell apparently isn't planning on Jefferson being in a condition to put an end to his four-game absence come Sunday. A good week of practice could change things, of course, especially with the Vikings currently sitting as the No. 7 seed in the NFC playoff race after four straight wins and…read more

Cleared to practice Wednesday

The Vikings designated Jefferson (hamstring) for return from injured reserve Wednesday.

Analysis: Jefferson will resume practicing Wednesday, opening a 21-day window in which he can be reinstated to the active roster. A report from Ian Rapoport of NFL Network earlier Wednesday suggested the wideout won't necessarily play this Sunday against the Saints, though it's certainly possible Jefferson suits up if he looks good on the practice field the next few days. Jefferson will return to an offense led by quarterback Joshua Dobbs, after Kirk Cousins suffered a torn Achilles' tendon Week 8 and…read more

Expected to practice this week

Jefferson (hamstring) is expected to practice this week but won't necessarily play Sunday against the Saints, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The Vikings appear poised to designate Jefferson for a return from injured reserve --possibly as soon as later Wednesday -- a transaction that would open a 21-day window in which he can be evaluated before being reinstated to the active roster. His fantasy value has taken a hit with quarterback Kirk Cousins (Achilles) out for the season, but any thought of shutting Jefferson down or resting him longer than necessary seems to have gone out the window with Minnesota winnings four straight games…read more

Status unclear for Week 10

Head coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday that the Vikings are still determining whether to designate Jefferson (hamstring) for return from injured reserve this week, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Analysis: After missing the required four games while on IR, Jefferson is eligible to resume practicing this week, but the team hasn't been clear with its plans, and it seems as though he's still being evaluated by the medical staff. Whenever Jefferson is available, he would provide a boost for the Minnesota offense that no longer has Kirk Cousins (Achilles) at quarterback, but the star wideout also is entering the final year of his contract in 2024, which may prompt both player and team to exercise…read more

Return date uncertain

It's not clear if Jefferson (hamstring) will return from injured reserve when first eligible next week, as Jefferson still has to meet with doctors to determine his next step and the team hasn't made its plans clear, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports. Head coach Kevin O'Connell said he did not yet have the information about a potential return when asked Friday, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

Analysis: There's been very little information about Jefferson's progress from a hamstring injury. His return is also clouded by both his contract situation (he enters the final year of his contract in 2024) and Minnesota's playoff outlook after the season-ending Achilles injury to Kirk Cousins. We'll likely know more early next week when the Vikings face a decision whether to start his return window from injured reserve so that he could possibly play as early as Nov. 12. The bottom line for fantasy…read more

To be re-evaluated in four weeks

Jefferson is expected to miss four-to-six weeks with a hamstring injury, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Jefferson was placed on injured reserve this week and will be forced to miss Minnesota's next four games as a result. That said, the front end of this timeline doesn't come as much of a surprise. However, Jefferson will have imaging done in four weeks to determine when he can return, so activation from IR when he is immediately eligible appears unlikely. K.J. Osborn, Jordan Addison and Brandon Powell should all have the chance to step up in Jefferson's absence.

Injury isn't season-ending

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said Wednesday that he doesn't believe Jefferson's hamstring injury to be a season-ending one, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: O'Connell didn't divulge the grade of Jefferson's right hamstring strain, but the injury is severe enough for him to miss at least the team's next four games while on injured reserve. While Jefferson is sidelined, Minnesota's passing attack may become more balanced between tight end T.J. Hockenson, wideouts K.J. Osborn and Jordan Addison and running back Alexander Mattison. However, Addison was a limited participant at Wednesday's practice due to an ankle injury, potentially removing another…read more

Placed on IR

The Vikings placed Jefferson (hamstring) on injured reserve Wednesday, ruling him out for the next four games, Craig Peters of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: Minnesota signed receiver N'Keal Harry off the practice squad in a corresponding move, while the likely beneficiaries in terms of targets are Jordan Addison, K.J. Osborn, Brandon Powell and tight end T.J. Hockenson. The Vikings seem to have hope that Jefferson will ready to play after missing the requisite four games, though it's also possible Minnesota's playoff hopes (or lack thereof) end up affecting the decision a month from now. His earliest possible return date is Nov. 12 against the…read more

Likely bound for IR

The Vikings are expected to place Jefferson (hamstring) on injured reserve this week, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Jefferson will be forced to miss a minimum of four contests if he's indeed placed on IR as a result of the right hamstring strain he sustained in Sunday's loss to the Chiefs. Peliserro relays, however, that the star wideout's exact recovery timetable has yet to be determined, meaning he could be sidelined for longer than four weeks. An extended absence from Jefferson would leave Jordan Addison and K.J. Osborn as the Vikings' top receivers, with tight end T.J. Hockenson potentially becoming Kirk…read more

Still being evaluated

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said Jefferson is still going through the evaluation process on the right hamstring strain he suffered in Sunday's 27-20 loss to the Chiefs, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Jefferson went down early in the fourth quarter versus Kansas City and was unable to return, finishing the day with three catches for 28 scoreless yards on six targets. If Jefferson needs to miss time, Jordan Addison and K.J. Osborn are going to have to step up into expanded roles at receiver, while tight end T.J. Hockenson would become the favorite to pace Minnesota in targets. The Vikings return to action Week 6 with a matchup Sunday against the Bears.

No info yet on hamstring injury

Coach Kevin O'Connell said after Sunday's 27-20 loss to Kansas City that it's too early to know how the hamstring injury that Jefferson suffered in the contest will affect his availability.

Analysis: Jefferson wasn't able to return after hurting his hamstring early in the fourth quarter, ending Week 5 with three catches on six targets for 28 yards. He had a visible limp as he made his way to the sideline, where he visited the medical tent, and he was merely a spectator afterward. If Jefferson is limited or unavailable for next Sunday's road game against the Bears, the Vikings may again have to lean heavily on rookie Jordan Addison, who led the team with a 6-64-1 line on nine targets against…read more

Injures hamstring Sunday

Jefferson left Sunday's game against the Chiefs early due to a hamstring injury, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: At the start of the fourth quarter, Jefferson was seen grabbing at his leg while making his way off the field. He had three catches (on six targets) for 28 yards at the time of his departure.

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.