4 Vikings who have exceeded expectations so far this season
By Dean Jones
Justin Jefferson – WR
Justin Jefferson did have some lofty expectations on his shoulders heading into this season, which is to be expected of a first-round pick. But it’s fair to say he’s everything the Vikings thought he would be and more.
The rookie wide receiver has set the NFL alight with some dazzling performances through seven games, giving Minnesota a perfect replacement for Stefon Diggs after their decision to trade him to the Buffalo Bills this past offseason.
Jefferson is a star in the making. He has everything one looks for in a top receiver at the next level and his playmaking ability has been there for all to see through Week 8.
High winds in Green Bay made things difficult to generate any sort of momentum in the passing game, but that shouldn’t detract from the exceptional start Jefferson has had to his time with Minnesota. He already has 31 receptions, 531 receiving yards, and three touchdowns to his name and has demonstrated a maturity that defies his age.
This is further reflected in Jefferson’s exceptional 90.2 grade by Pro Football Focus, which might not the be-all and end-all regarding a player’s contribution, but in the former LSU standout’s case, it is more than warranted.
The sky is the limit for Jefferson and the Vikings are fortunate to have a player with the world at his feet.