Minnesota Vikings wideout Justin Jefferson is the latest NFL player to join the Madden 99 club. His reaction is priceless.
Justin Jefferson is the best wide receiver in the NFL. At least, that's how the team behind EA Sports' Madden 24 ranked him. The Minnesota Vikings wideout will be rated 99 overall in the next iteration of the beloved video game — the only wideout to receive what essentially amounts to a perfect score.
While there is stiff competition for Jefferson's spot at No. 1 — Tyreek Hill (98) and Davante Adams (97) are his toughest immediate threats — it's hard to argue with Jefferson leading the pack. He was top in the NFL in receptions (128), receiving yards (1,809), and yards per game (106.4) last season.
There isn't a more productive player at his position right now, and so long as Kirk Cousins doesn't slow down under center, we can expect another dominant campaign from the LSU product.
That said, Jefferson has plans to dominate beyond the football field and into the virtual realm. He's about to have an absolute ball playing the new Madden.
Minnesota Vikings WR Justin Jefferson celebrates 99 overall rating on Madden 24
What a wholesome response from Jefferson, who has participated in the same tradition as millions of Madden players around the world: building your own Create-a-player and jacking up the attributes to 99. And what a special, full circle moment to no longer need to participate.
This is only the beginning for Jefferson. He's 24 years old with three years of NFL experience. He has never missed a Pro Bowl, and he seldom misses a catch. The Vikings were 13-4 last season and feel destined for another first-place season in the NFC North. The next step for Jefferson and company? Getting to the Super Bowl.
Of course, the Vikings will face significant challenges in the broader NFC landscape. The Eagles and 49ers are formidable two-way forces. Meanwhile, the AFC has built-in Super Bowl favorites in Kansas City, plus a few other high-profile contenders in Buffalo and Cincinnati.
It can be hard for a wide receiver to single-handedly influence winning on the level necessary to propel a team all the way to the Super Bowl, but Jefferson will absolutely be central to any hopes of a deep Vikings run. His chemistry with Cousins is one of one and his presence down the field cracks open seams in the defense for other teammates.
Jefferson can dominate defenses at every level. He's a monster on deep throws and he's similarly effective in short-yardage scenarios, using his unmatched twitchiness and speed to leave defenders grasping at air while he reels off yards after the catch.
A 99 overall rating is difficult to live up to, but Jefferson is as strong a bet to deliver as any player in football.