Why Vikings believe rookie WR, Justin Jefferson could become an elite tandem
The Minnesota Vikings see shades of Justin Jefferson in rookie wide receiver Jordan Addison.
"It's like JJ (Jefferson) coming in and doing what he's done," Vikings offensive coordinator Wes Phillips said of the 21-year-old in a Tuesday news conference. "He does have great body control, he is as advertised."
Phillips comparing the 21-year-old to Jefferson is a fantastic sign because he's the best wideout in the NFL. In 17 games last season, the Pro Bowler led the league in receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,809).
Addison —the 23rd overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft — shined in three seasons at Pittsburgh and Southern Cal, winning the 2021 Biletnikoff Award. However, concerns arose after he missed OTAs and minicamp with an injury and a reckless driving citation in July.
Nevertheless, he's turned around in training camp and made an attention-grabbing play during the preseason opener against Seattle. Although it was ruled as an incompletion, officials would've overturned the play if they reviewed it or if Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell threw his challenge flag.
O'Connell likes what he sees from the rookie.
"He showed up to camp with a mindset that he wanted to be in that first huddle from Day 1," O'Connell said Sunday, per Matt Verderame of Sports Illustrated. "He's got so much natural ability, balance, body control, speed, burst, quickness."
Addison should thrive in Minnesota since their passing offense ranks among the league's best. In 2022, the Vikings finished seventh in passing yards. Plus, O'Connell is a disciple of Rams HC Sean McVay, a Super Bowl champion, and knows how to maximize a promising, young WR.
Perhaps Addison and Jefferson will become one of the top tandems in the NFL.
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