Career Timeline of Justin Jefferson: Major Achievements and Milestones

Discover the career path of Justin Jefferson, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Justin Jefferson is a prominent American football wide receiver currently playing for the Minnesota Vikings in the NFL. He gained recognition during his college career with the LSU Tigers, culminating in a national championship win in 2020. Jefferson was subsequently drafted by the Vikings in the first round of the 2020 NFL draft. He is known for his exceptional receiving skills and has quickly become a key player for the Vikings.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

2017: First Year at LSU

In 2017, Justin Jefferson appeared in two games for LSU, but did not record any catches.

September 29, 2018: First Collegiate Touchdown

On September 29, 2018, Justin Jefferson scored his first collegiate touchdown on a 65-yard reception from Joe Burrow against Ole Miss.

2019: Successful 2019 Season

During the 2019 season, Justin Jefferson had multiple high-yardage games, including nine receptions for 163 yards and three touchdowns against Texas. He also had significant performances against Florida and Georgia. He helped the Tigers qualify for the College Football Playoffs with an undefeated record.

January 15, 2020: Declaration for NFL Draft

On January 15, 2020, Justin Jefferson announced his decision to forgo his senior season and enter the NFL draft.

2020: College Football National Championship and NFL Draft

In 2020, Justin Jefferson won the College Football Playoff National Championship with the LSU Tigers. Later in 2020, he was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the NFL draft.

2021: Continued Success in 2021 Season

In 2021, Justin Jefferson achieved multiple 100+ receiving yard games. He earned NFC Offensive Player of the Week and Month honors. He also surpassed Odell Beckham Jr. for most receiving yards in his first two NFL seasons.

2021: Pro Bowl Selection and Rookie Honors

In 2021, Justin Jefferson was named to the Pro Bowl and was named Rookie of the Year by the Sporting News, and was included in the NFL All-Rookie Team.

2022: League Leader and Offensive Player of the Year

In 2022, Justin Jefferson led the league in receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,809). He also won the Offensive Player of the Year award.

2022: Pro Bowl Selection

In 2022, Justin Jefferson was named to the Pro Bowl for the second consecutive year and was named a second-team member of the AP All-Pro team.

2022: Offensive Player of the Year

In 2022, Justin Jefferson, at the age of 23, led the league in receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,809), earning him the Offensive Player of the Year award.

April 25, 2023: Fifth-Year Option Picked Up

On April 25, 2023, the Minnesota Vikings picked up the fifth-year option of Justin Jefferson's rookie contract.

November 28, 2023: Activated off Injured Reserve

On November 28, 2023, Justin Jefferson was activated off of injured reserve by the Vikings.

2023: Finished 2023 Season with Over 1,000 Receiving Yards

Despite missing seven games due to injury, Justin Jefferson still managed to finish the 2023 season with over 1,000 receiving yards.

June 3, 2024: Contract Extension

On June 3, 2024, Justin Jefferson signed a four-year, $140 million contract extension with the Vikings, which includes $110 million guaranteed, keeping him with the team through the 2028 season.

2024: Successful 2024 Season

During the 2024 season, Justin Jefferson achieved 400 career receptions and tied Lance Alworth for the fastest player to reach 6,000 receiving yards. He also surpassed Torry Holt for the most receiving yards in a player's first five NFL seasons. Jefferson eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards and had a multi-touchdown performance against the Atlanta Falcons. He finished the 2024 season with 103 receptions for 1,533 yards and ten touchdowns.