
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson is a competitor. That much has been made evident across his college and NFL career, and that's what making this season so hard for Jefferson.
The Vikings receiver was seen visibly frustrated as first year starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy's struggles spilled over into Sunday's 19-17 home loss to the Chicago Bears.
Some Vikings fans are opting for the patient approach and trusting that McCarthy will become the quarterback they always hoped he would become in Minnesota. Being patient is easier for them than for Jefferson who is having to live through the struggles firsthand.
Part of the frustration for Jefferson is that the Vikings have all the pieces to field an explosive offense. Jordan Addison, Jalen Nailor and T.J. Hockenson round out a potent group of receivers while Jordan Mason and Aaron Jones Sr. make for a strong running back duo in the backfield. That's to say nothing of the Vikings defense that has performed well for much of the season.
The frustration has not prevented Jefferson for continuing to compete. Despite only reeling in five catches for a solid 61 yards, the receiver was seen making an extra effort block to spring the Vikings first touchdown in the fourth quarter on Sunday. The irritation is not that Jefferson is not getting the ball. The frustration is that the Vikings are losing.
Widely regarded as one of the best receivers, if not the best, in the NFL, it is clear that the limiting factor for Jefferson is not the play calling or surrounding skill-player talent. The issue starts and end with quarterback.
For the third time, McCarthy posted a passing total of 150 yards or less against an NFC North opponent. He completed just 50% of his passes with two game altering turnovers. One interception negated a field goal opportunity while another spotted Chicago the ball at the Minnesota 25-yard line for a Chicago field goal.
Presumably, McCarthy will improve over the next few games. The vast learning curve from the college to NFL level is felt not only by McCarthy but several young quarterbacks across the league. Still, that fact is not making it the season any easier on Justin Jefferson.
The Vikings are 4-6 although it could be argued they should not be that bad. The talent is present. It needs McCarthy to come along if it is going to compete this season.