Overview
- Jefferson told USA TODAY he believes Minnesota "would have done better" with Sam Darnold and called it "tough to watch" as he backs Seattle in Super Bowl LX.
- Darnold left the Vikings after 2024 and led the Seahawks to the Super Bowl in the first season of a three-year, $100.5 million deal.
- Minnesota finished 9-8 and missed the playoffs as J.J. McCarthy logged only 52% of snaps, attempted 243 passes, and posted more interceptions (12) than touchdowns (11) in 10 starts.
- Jefferson’s production dipped from 103 catches, 1,533 yards and 10 TDs in 2024 to 84 receptions, 1,048 yards and 2 TDs in 2025.
- The remarks drew criticism from commentators such as Skip Bayless, while the franchise proceeds through a GM change and enters an offseason with unresolved plans at quarterback.