Justin Jefferson trade request: 3 landing spots if Vikings WR demands out amid J.J. McCarthy's massive struggles

Despite the lofty expectations, things have failed to work out between Justin Jefferson and J.J. McCarthy. It appeared Jefferson would have a stable quarterback at Minnesota for the first time after McCarthy took the starting role, but the two have failed to form the anticipated chemistry.

After another unimpressive game against the Chicago Bears, the rumors are saying Jefferson could request a trade. The wide receiver recorded five receptions for 61 yards in the Vikings' 19-17 loss. This has been the picture for the wide receiver when McCarthy starts at quarterback.

Here's a look at three destinations Justin Jefferson could land if he decides to request a trade at the end of the 2025 season.

Three trade landing spots for Justin Jefferson

#1, San Francisco 49ers

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According to Adam Schefter, the San Francisco 49ers inquired about Justin Jefferson in 2024, and they might be open to bringing him in once again if the opportunity opens up. The inquiry was said to have been before the wide receiver inked a record deal in June 2024.

Jefferson adds a lot to the 49ers team, which is expected to have Brock Purdy as the starting quarterback for the next couple of years. Also, with the recent injuries to notable wide receivers like Brandon Aiyuk, a name like Jefferson is bound to help fix the inconsistency.

Without a doubt, a potential addition of Jefferson to the 49ers roster will elevate them to Super Bowl contention once again after falling short in the last couple of years.

#2, Washington Commanders

The Washington Commanders secured a franchise quarterback with the selection of Jayden Daniels in the 2024 NFL draft. He led them to the conference championship last season as a rookie after they had missed the playoffs in the three previous seasons.

There have been talks around the NFL world that the Commanders need to give Daniels more weapons to become a real Super Bowl contender. This makes the idea of trading for Justin Jefferson a good deal if the opportunity opens up at the end of the 2025 season.

The Commanders have enough cap space to get the deal done, but must be willing to forgo crucial draft capital to get Jefferson on board.

#3, Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills entered the 2025 season as a strong contender for the Super Bowl. However, the struggles they've encountered in the passing game might be the reason that won't be happening. Wide receivers like Keon Coleman have failed to live up to the lofty expectations.

Trading for Justin Jefferson will undoubtedly solve the Bills’ struggle in the passing game. The 2023 Offensive Player of the Year is one of the best in the game, and with reigning NFL MVP Josh Allen throwing the ball, an insane offensive connection could be formed in Buffalo.

Getting a talented wide receiver like Jefferson for Allen while he's still at his best is obviously one way the Bills can eventually achieve their Super Bowl dream.

Edited by Farouk Yusuf