Justin Jefferson

Justin Jefferson (born June 16, 1999) is an All-Pro wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings. A first-round pick in 2020 out of LSU, he quickly became one of the NFL’s most productive pass catchers, earning multiple Pro Bowls, All-Pro honors, and the AP Offensive Player of the Year (2022).

Quick facts

• Team/Number: Minnesota Vikings, No. 18
• Draft: 2020 NFL Draft, Round 1, Pick 22
• College: LSU (2017–2019), College Football Playoff national champion (2019)
• Height/Weight: 6'1", ~195 lb
• Hometown: St. Rose, Louisiana
• Awards: AP Offensive Player of the Year (2022), multiple Pro Bowls & All-Pro selections
• Signature celebration: The Griddy

Early life & LSU career

Jefferson emerged from a football family in Louisiana and blossomed at LSU, breaking out during the Tigers’ historic 2019 championship season. His route precision, hands, and yards-after-catch ability made him a premier draft prospect.

NFL career highlights

• Rookie impact (2020): Set franchise rookie records and finished among league leaders in yards.
• Sophomore surge (2021): Continued top-five production while drawing No. 1-corner attention weekly.
• Crown season (2022): Led the league in receptions and receiving yards, winning AP OPOY.
• Historical pace: Set NFL marks for most receiving yards across a player’s first three seasons (2020–2022).
• Coverage gravity: Consistently dictates safety help and bracket coverage, opening space for teammates.

Playing style

Jefferson wins with advanced route nuance, late hands, and elite body control. He threatens all three levels, excels on digs, posts, and fades, and converts contested targets with strong tracking and timing. After the catch, he’s slippery with vision and balance that turn routine throws into chunk gains.

Contract overview

Jefferson secured a market-setting multi-year extension in 2024 that positioned him among the highest-paid non-QBs in football. Structure highlights typically include strong guarantees and top-tier annual value befitting a franchise cornerstone.

Notable stats & records (spotlight)

• League leader in receptions and receiving yards in 2022
• NFL record pace for cumulative receiving yards through the first three seasons of a career
• Multiple single-game performances over 180 yards
• Consistent top-five rankings in targets, yards per route run, and explosive receptions during peak seasons

Off the field

Known for a charismatic personality and fan-friendly style, Jefferson has helped popularize the Griddy and frequently appears in community and brand activations. He is also recognized for leadership within the locker room despite his young age.

FAQs

Who is Justin Jefferson?

An All-Pro wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings, drafted in the first round in 2020 after starring at LSU.

What records does he hold?

He set the NFL benchmark for most receiving yards by a player across the first three seasons of a career and has multiple team and league milestones.

What awards has he won?

Highlights include AP Offensive Player of the Year (2022), plus multiple Pro Bowls and All-Pro selections.

What is his contract status?

He signed a market-setting multi-year extension in 2024 that placed him among the highest-paid non-quarterbacks.