Justin Jefferson returns to action, moves up Vikings' all-time receiving list

Justin Jefferson looked like his usual self during his first full game since Week 4. Playing with Nick Mullens for the first time this season, he caught seven of his ten targets for 84 yards on Saturday and made several impressive plays that offered reminders of his all-world talent.

Notably, that yardage was enough for Jefferson to pass Ahmad Rashad and move into eighth on the Vikings' all-time receiving leaderboard — despite being in just his fourth season.

Vikings all-time receiving yards leaders

1. Cris Carter: 12,383
2. Randy Moss: 9,316
3. Anthony Carter: 7,636
4. Adam Thielen: 6,682
5. Jake Reed: 6,433
6. Sammy White: 6,400
7. Steve Jordan: 6,307
8. Justin Jefferson: 5,507
9. Ahmad Rashad: 5,489
10. Stefon Diggs: 4,623

Jefferson's injuries this season slowed down his progress, but he'll almost certainly wind up in fourth place on that list by the end of 2024 if he stays healthy. He's also just six yards away from passing Michael Thomas for the most receiving yards in NFL history by a player in their first four seasons.

Against the Bengals, Jefferson's longest catch went for just 19 yards, but he was a consistent option for Mullens in the short-to-intermediate game. His elite route-running, hands, and body control were all on display in this game.

"Felt great to play a full game again, felt great to be out there with my teammates making plays," Jefferson said. "It’s definitely been a long time coming."