Vikings Star Justin Jefferson Sends Clear Message on QB J.J. McCarthy: Exclusive

It is the eve of the Super Bowl, and Justin Jefferson would rather be preparing for the Minnesota Vikings to play for a Lombardi Trophy. Instead, Jefferson is making the most of the situation by teaming up with USAA to surprise veterans with a trip to the Super Bowl. 

Jefferson arrives wearing sunglasses, a white T-shirt, baggy black pants and his signature "Jets" chain. During an exclusive interview with Athlon Sports, Jefferson reflects on what the Vikings offense could look like with J.J. McCarthy as the team's starting quarterback. 

"Yeah, I definitely can say he's a sponge, for sure," Jefferson told Athlon Sports regarding McCarthy during an interview on Saturday. "He's a guy that wants to learn. He's a guy that wants to be a top-tier quarterback in this league."

Jefferson should know as the star receiver's locker is right next to McCarthy. The Vikings face a decision at quarterback with Sam Darnold hitting NFL free agency. 

"So, our lockers are really right next to each other," Jefferson continued to reflect on his relationship with McCarthy. "So, every single day we're chopping it up. We're talking not only about football, but just life in general [and] what's going on. 

"And just having that connection with him before he even steps on the field is something that's special. So, I'm excited to see what he does."

McCarthy's rookie year never happened after the quarterback sustained a torn meniscus during the preseason which ultimately ended his season before it ever started. Jefferson reflected on what he saw from McCarthy prior to his season-ending injury. 

"He was doing great before he had got injured," Jefferson added. "So, I'm excited to see what we're going to do, who we're going to bring back and to see who's going to be our starter for next year."

Like Vikings fans, Jefferson is eagerly anticipating who will be the team's starting quarterback for 2025. Regardless of who emerges as the Vikings QB1, Jefferson is hoping his next trip to the Super Bowl is as a player.