Justin Jefferson’s leadership skills on display at Vikings OTAs

After signing a massive contract extension last summer that made among the highest paid players in the NFL Justin Jefferson was voted a squad captain by his teammates on the Vikings What did the standout receiver learn about himself stepping into that position That I veritably can do it Jefferson reported with a smile on Monday afternoon at TCO Performance Center I had to learn to be vocal and know that I have specific type of influence on this club That influence has been on display this spring as Jefferson has been an operational participant in organized club sessions Though the Vikings genuinely made it a point to ask him to be in attendance Jefferson commented he was perpetually planning to be at the voluntary workouts To build that connection with my teammates Jefferson disclosed Especially with my quarterback The fact that Jefferson has already started to familiarize himself with new starting quarterback J J McCarthy bodes well for the Vikings moving forward Not only does it help Jefferson learn what to expect whenever the ball is in the air maybe more vital it helps McCarthy understand how much he can rely on his best weapon whenever he drops back to pass Just throw it up anywhere Jefferson stated with another smile I m going to go get it That s a common refrain Jefferson has used throughout his tenure regardless of it s been former franchise quarterback Kirk Cousins journeyman quarterback Sam Darnold or McCarthy taking snaps under center It really doesn t matter who s throwing the ball Jefferson declared As soon as the ball gets close to my face I m going to try to catch it What s the biggest thing he has learned about McCarthy so far He definitely has an arm Jefferson commented He can definitely zip it whenever he demands to What s the biggest thing Jefferson wants McCarthy to learn about him The difference between me and another receiver is what I put on the top of my routes Jefferson reported Just the flavor I have and the stride length that I have There are certain routes for example that Jefferson might break off at a different depth than particular of his peers All of that goes into it Jefferson reported So the more we re out here having those reps the better we re going to be That s why it was fundamental for Jefferson to be an working participant in organized squad programs Just being here makes a difference Jefferson revealed It feels great to be around the unit earlier than normal and carrying on that leadership role Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson takes part in drills during an NFL football club practice Wednesday May in Eagan Minn AP Photo Abbie Parr Related Articles Mizutani Why extending Kwesi Adofo-Mensah was right move for Vikings Vikings sign GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah to contract extension The importance of Justin Jefferson s attendance at Vikings OTAs J J McCarthy s goal during Vikings OTAs Not being afraid to fail Five storylines to keep an eye on as the Vikings start OTAs