LIVE REPORT: Justin Jefferson’s Stellar Season Earns Unanimous All-Pro Selection
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson has once again solidified his status as one of the NFL’s elite. Jefferson capped off the 2024 season with his fifth consecutive 1,000-yard receiving campaign, joining an exclusive club of record-setters. It was also his third season with 100+ receptions, as he matched a career-high 10 touchdowns, finishing the regular season with 103 receptions for 1,533 yards and 10 scores.
For his efforts, Jefferson earned his second unanimous All-Pro selection, an honor that speaks volumes about his dominance on the field.
“Wow, that’s crazy!” Jefferson exclaimed in reaction to the news, speaking with the Associated Press’ Rob Maaddi on January 10. “That’s respect right there. That’s what I call respect.”
Vikings’ All-Pro Trio
Jefferson wasn’t alone in representing the Vikings on the All-Pro stage. Teammates Andrew DePaola and Andrew Van Ginkel also received honors. DePaola secured First-Team All-Pro recognition for the second time in three seasons, while Van Ginkel made the Second Team in his first career selection.
Jefferson’s standout year followed a monumental moment in his career: a four-year, $140 million contract extension signed before the season.
A Hall of Fame Trajectory
Jefferson’s record-setting start continues to draw comparisons to the game’s greatest. His five consecutive 1,000-yard seasons to start his career tie him with legends like Randy Moss, Mike Evans, and A.J. Green for the most in NFL history, per Stathead.
Among active players, only Ja’Marr Chase and Garrett Wilson have matched the feat in every season since their rookie campaigns. Jefferson is now one of just seven players in history to record multiple seasons with at least 100 receptions, 1,500 yards, and 10 touchdowns, putting him in elite company with Hall of Famers like Marvin Harrison (three such seasons), Jerry Rice, and Michael Irvin.
No player in NFL history has matched Jefferson’s five-year total of 495 receptions, 7,432 receiving yards, and 40 touchdowns, further solidifying his trajectory toward Canton.
Wild Card Matchup: Vikings vs. Rams
Jefferson and the Vikings are gearing up for a Wild Card showdown against the Los Angeles Rams, though the game comes with a twist. Due to wildfires in California, the matchup has been moved to Glendale, Arizona, home of the Cardinals. This shift could bring a more balanced mix of fan support for the Vikings.
Jefferson had a strong showing against the Rams earlier this season, logging eight receptions for 115 yards in their Week 8 meeting. However, the Vikings will be seeking redemption after a 30-20 loss to LA on “Thursday Night Football.”
Both teams enter the playoffs looking to bounce back from Week 18 losses. The Vikings were dealt a blowout by the Detroit Lions, while the Rams rested their starters and fell to the Seattle Seahawks.
With Jefferson at the forefront, the Vikings aim to capitalize on their superstar’s historic season and turn the tide in the playoffs.
