Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson. Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

Justin Jefferson's immediate response after 29-year-old's retirement decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Mar 20, 2026 9:05 PM ET

Justin Jefferson and the Minnesota Vikings did not have the 2025 NFL season they were hoping for, missing the playoffs for the second time in the last three years.

After starting 4-8, however, the Vikings made a strong push for a postseason spot by winning their final five games. But the 9-8 finish just wasn't enough.

Despite another disappointing season for Minnesota, Jefferson still put together a solid year with quarterbacks J.J. McCarthy and Carson Wentz under center. In 17 games played, the former LSU Tigers wide receiver recorded 84 catches for 1,048 yards and two touchdowns.

While Jefferson, 26, looks to return to the playoffs in 2026, another former LSU wide receiver has decided it is time to call it quits.

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson (18) warms up prior to the game against the Green Bay Packers.Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

DJ Chark Jr. was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft. The 29-year-old wide receiver saw limited playing time during his rookie season but had a breakout year in 2019, recording career highs with 73 catches for 1,008 yards and eight touchdowns. He also earned his first and only Pro Bowl selection that season.

After the 2021 season, his fourth in Jacksonville, Chark bounced around the league for several years, including brief stints with the Detroit Lions, Carolina Panthers, Los Angeles Chargers and, most recently, the Falcons, where he spent less than a month before the 2025 season. But on Friday, Chark decided his time in the NFL was over, announcing his retirement on social media.

"After much contemplation, I have decided to share a proper farewell as I navigate retirement," Chark wrote on Instagram. "My journey began at the age of 7 when I signed up for football, unaware of the profound impact it would have on my life. I simply loved the sport and had the unwavering support of my parents. Years later I received the support of my wife, kids, family and thousands of fans!"

Jefferson quickly took notice of his former LSU teammate's retirement announcement, leaving a simple response to Chark in the comments section: "."