Justin Jefferson takes responsibility after costly mistakes in Vikings’ loss
Justin Jefferson didn’t shy away from accountability following the Vikings’ 27–19 home defeat to the Ravens, admitting he “has to play better” after an uncharacteristic performance marred by a key end-zone drop, missed deep passes, and a false start penalty.
Jefferson finished with just four receptions on 12 targets for 37 yards — a rare off day for the All-Pro receiver. He struggled to win his usual one-on-one matchups and failed to haul in a perfectly placed throw in the end zone that could have changed the game’s momentum late in the third quarter. Instead, Minnesota settled for a field goal before Baltimore extended its lead with a touchdown on the next drive.
“I’ve got to play better — fight through contact and finish the catch,” Jefferson said. When asked if the end-zone drop was the play he most wanted back, he didn’t hesitate: “Oh, for sure.”
Quarterback J.J. McCarthy targeted Jefferson on two deep passes, both resulting in interceptions. The first came on a throw into double coverage that Malaki Starks picked off; Jefferson later admitted he expects himself to make plays in those situations. “That’s something I pride myself on — turning those 50-50 balls into 70-30,” he said. “That’s on me, and it’s something I’ll keep working to improve.”
On the second interception, Jefferson stumbled over cornerback Marlon Humphrey’s feet, leaving little chance to prevent the turnover. However, he appeared disengaged during Humphrey’s return.
When asked about his physical condition, Jefferson said he felt fine. “The ball just didn’t find my hands today,” he said. “That’s football — sometimes it just doesn’t go your way. We’ve got to go back to work, fix what needs fixing, and make sure Sundays come easier.”
Jefferson also committed one of Minnesota’s eight false start penalties, another sign of the team’s lack of rhythm. “We can’t go backward before the play even starts,” he said. “We’ve got to lock in, know the call and the cadence, and just play relaxed — play our game.”
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