In a recent conversation with USA Today Sports, Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson shared his thoughts on being overlooked for this year”s Pro Bowl. His comments come amid a wider discussion on the declining appeal of the event, especially after Shedeur Sanders, a rookie quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, was surprisingly named a Pro Bowl replacement.
This marks the second time Jefferson has missed out on a Pro Bowl selection since the Vikings drafted him in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. “Oh, trust me, I was p—– off I wasn”t a Pro Bowler this year,” he stated, reflecting on a season where he still managed to accumulate over 1,000 receiving yards despite challenges. Jefferson finished the regular season ranked 13th in the NFL with 84 receptions and 12th with 1,048 receiving yards, although he only recorded two receiving touchdowns across 17 games.
Part of Jefferson”s scoring struggles can be attributed to J.J. McCarthy, who did not meet the expectations set by the Vikings organization for his performance in his second year. However, Jefferson is determined to turn this Pro Bowl omission into motivation for the upcoming 2026 season. “A Pro Bowl selection classifies you as one of the best in the league,” he added. “So, it”s definitely tough not being a part of that this year, but I”m determined. That gives me more juice to put that work in for me not to be in this situation next year.”
Previously, Jefferson expressed his desire for McCarthy to remain the starting quarterback for the Vikings heading into the summer. Nonetheless, Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah hinted that the team might explore offseason options to enhance their quarterback position and ensure they have the depth needed for a competitive season.
