Despite the Minnesota Vikings’ early playoff exit, star receiver Justin Jefferson voiced his support for quarterback Sam Darnold, hoping he’ll return to the team next season. Jefferson told USA TODAY Sports he’d be thrilled to have Darnold back and try to replicate their season, believing Darnold did enough to earn another chance.
Despite a stellar 14-3 regular season—Minnesota’s best since 1998, and a historic 14-win wild card berth—the Vikings’ playoff run ended abruptly with a 27-9 loss to the Rams in the wild card round. This disappointing finish followed a Week 18 defeat against the Lions, which cost the Vikings the NFC North title and the top overall seed.
Jefferson emphasized that the team’s two-game losing streak shouldn’t overshadow their overall success this season. He pointed out the difficulty of achieving 14 wins in the NFL, noting they only lost to two teams all year (Detroit and Los Angeles). He credited Darnold with leading them to the playoffs and highlighted the rarity of a 14-win season with only three losses, further expressing his desire for Darnold to return.
Jefferson noted that Darnold’s season was particularly impressive given the initial criticism he faced upon joining the Vikings. After spending two years as a backup, many doubted his ability to be a starting quarterback again, but Darnold silenced those critics. His performance, with 361 completions on 545 attempts for 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions in 17 games, earned him his first Pro Bowl selection.
Jefferson praised Darnold’s mental fortitude, acknowledging the pressure he faced and how he overcame it to play confidently and freely. He expressed happiness that Darnold proved his capabilities as a starting quarterback. Darnold is now entering free agency after his one-year, $10 million contract with the Vikings expired. His future with the team is uncertain, even with Jefferson’s support, as the Vikings also have their 2024 first-round draft pick, J.J. McCarthy, on the roster.
Regarding rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, Jefferson believes he will still get a chance to prove himself. He described McCarthy as a “sponge,” noting his eagerness to learn and his constant questions aimed at improving both his mental and physical game.