Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson has been ranked as the No. 2 overall player in the NFL by ESPN, trailing only Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. This recognition underscores Jefferson’s elite status in the league, particularly as the highest-ranked non-quarterback.
Jefferson’s ascent in the NFL has been remarkable. Drafted 22nd overall in 2020, he quickly established himself as a premier receiver, leading the league in receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,809) in 2022, earning the NFL Offensive Player of the Year award. In 2024, despite missing seven games due to injury, he still surpassed 1,000 receiving yards, marking his fourth consecutive season achieving this milestone.
In recognition of his outstanding performance, Jefferson secured a four-year, $140 million contract extension with the Vikings in 2024, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.
While Jefferson’s roots trace back to St. Rose, Louisiana, where he attended Destrehan High School and later starred at LSU, there is no public record of him having direct ties to Indiana. His upbringing in Louisiana, combined with his family’s athletic background—both older brothers played football at LSU—played a significant role in shaping his football career.
Jefferson’s dedication and work ethic have been widely recognized. Vikings General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah praised him, stating, “There’s certain types of players you want around. Players who love football, are great at football, make their teammates better, have that winning spirit.”
As Jefferson continues to excel on the field, he remains a cornerstone for the Vikings and a prominent figure in the NFL landscape.