"Proud of not really showing my emotions": Justin Jefferson gets honest about "frustrations" despite fewer largets

Justin Jefferson is having the worst campaign of his NFL career. The Minnesota Vikings wide receiver is 242 yards shy of his 2023 production; however, he only played 10 games that year. He could have his first season without 1,000 receiving yards to his name.

Jefferson talked about his production following his team's win over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.

"Yeah, I'm in a good spot," Jefferson said to reporters. "It's a difficult year with circumstances, new QB, new guys on the team trying to figure stuff out. It's one of those years to reflect on after the season." "But I'm proud of myself for not showing the frustration, not really showing my emotions out there on the field, and just being the leader and captain that I am."

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Minnesota (6-8) has already been eliminated from the playoff race. Expectations were high for Kevin O'Connell's team after a 14-3 campaign last year, but they have struggled since letting Sam Darnold leave in free agency.

However, Jefferson has J.J. McCarthy's back despite the team's 4-4 record with him under center. He praised the quarterback for his confidence and believes McCarthy has the potential to be better starting next year.

Justin Jefferson on backlash from fantasy managers

Justin Jefferson was an obvious pick when fantasy managers were completing their teams for this season. The wide receiver recorded 1,500+ receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in 2024. However, he has received backlash for his disappointing performance this campaign.

Jefferson lashed out at fantasy managers complaining about his production ahead of Sunday's game against the Cowboys. He stressed that he is not playing for fantasy, and that it's not something he cares about. Jefferson's focus is on winning games, feeding his family and doing his best to help the Vikings.

The former first-round pick has 66 receptions for 832 yards and two touchdowns this season, averaging less than 60 yards per game.

Edited by Victor Ramon Galvez