Posted on Jan 01

Jefferson supports McCarthy as Vikings aim for playoff rebound, needing 1,000-yard season

Posted Jan 1, 2026

The Minnesota Vikings face a pivotal matchup against the Green Bay Packers, as wide receiver Justin Jefferson aims to salvage a disappointing season while supporting quarterback J.J. McCarthy.

Why it matters: Jefferson's performance will not only influence the outcome of this critical game but also determine whether he reaches a significant personal milestone—1,000 receiving yards for the season.

The Vikings have missed the playoffs this year, and Jefferson’s less productive season has played a role in that outcome.
He needs just 53 receiving yards against the Packers to maintain his streak of never finishing below 1,000 yards in a season.

What’s new: After a challenging campaign marked by injuries and inconsistent quarterback play, Jefferson remains optimistic about McCarthy's potential to lead the offense moving forward.

McCarthy, who has had a rocky season, participated fully in practice on Thursday, indicating readiness to return after missing Week 17 due to a hairline fracture in his right hand.
Jefferson expressed confidence in McCarthy, stating, “Of course I would love for him to be here... he needs to show everybody… that he is that top-tier quarterback.”

Yes, but: Despite Jefferson’s high expectations for his quarterback, the reality remains that he has struggled to find consistent production this season.

Jefferson has recorded less than 50 receiving yards in seven of his last nine games, all started by either McCarthy or rookie Max Brosmer.
His only two 100-yard performances this season occurred when Carson Wentz was under center during Weeks 4 and 5.

Between the lines: Jefferson’s leadership and mentorship role have become increasingly important as the team navigates its challenges.

He noted, “I had to learn myself how to be patient… to lead as a captain of this team,” highlighting his growth amid adversity.
Jefferson’s comments reflect a broader acknowledgment of the need for improvement from the entire squad, stating, “Going forward, requiring more for everybody. Having this type of season, we ain’t trying to have this type of season again.”

What to watch: As the Vikings prepare for their final game of the season, all eyes will be on Jefferson’s ability to make an impact, which could set the tone for the team's direction moving forward.

The outcome of this game not only affects Jefferson's individual statistics but also the future of the quarterback position and overall team strategy.
McCarthy’s performance will be crucial, and how well he executes with Jefferson as a primary target may dictate both players' trajectories in 2026.

The bottom line: With the Vikings striving to end the season on a positive note, Jefferson's quest for 1,000 yards encapsulates the dual objectives of personal achievement and team progression.

Jefferson supports McCarthy as Vikings aim for playoff rebound, needing 1,000-yard season

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 1, 2026

The Minnesota Vikings face a pivotal matchup against the Green Bay Packers, as wide receiver Justin Jefferson aims to salvage a disappointing season while supporting quarterback J.J. McCarthy.

The Vikings have missed the playoffs this year, and Jefferson’s less productive season has played a role in that outcome.

He needs just 53 receiving yards against the Packers to maintain his streak of never finishing below 1,000 yards in a season.

What’s new: After a challenging campaign marked by injuries and inconsistent quarterback play, Jefferson remains optimistic about McCarthy's potential to lead the offense moving forward.

McCarthy, who has had a rocky season, participated fully in practice on Thursday, indicating readiness to return after missing Week 17 due to a hairline fracture in his right hand.

Jefferson expressed confidence in McCarthy, stating, “Of course I would love for him to be here... he needs to show everybody… that he is that top-tier quarterback.”

Yes, but: Despite Jefferson’s high expectations for his quarterback, the reality remains that he has struggled to find consistent production this season.

Jefferson has recorded less than 50 receiving yards in seven of his last nine games, all started by either McCarthy or rookie Max Brosmer.

His only two 100-yard performances this season occurred when Carson Wentz was under center during Weeks 4 and 5.

Between the lines: Jefferson’s leadership and mentorship role have become increasingly important as the team navigates its challenges.

He noted, “I had to learn myself how to be patient… to lead as a captain of this team,” highlighting his growth amid adversity.

Jefferson’s comments reflect a broader acknowledgment of the need for improvement from the entire squad, stating, “Going forward, requiring more for everybody. Having this type of season, we ain’t trying to have this type of season again.”

The outcome of this game not only affects Jefferson's individual statistics but also the future of the quarterback position and overall team strategy.

McCarthy’s performance will be crucial, and how well he executes with Jefferson as a primary target may dictate both players' trajectories in 2026.

The bottom line: With the Vikings striving to end the season on a positive note, Jefferson's quest for 1,000 yards encapsulates the dual objectives of personal achievement and team progression.