Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson didn’t hold back in expressing his opinion on the NFL’s social media team sharing a fan’s poster during the Detroit Lions’ Divisional Round matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on January 21.
The poster, inspired by Lions head coach Dan Campbell’s “biting kneecaps” metaphor for toughness, drew criticism from Jefferson, who found it inappropriate for the league’s official handle.
During the same day’s game between the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs, Jefferson took to X, formerly Twitter, to voice his disapproval, stating, “Yall wild for posting this. This ain’t cool!!” The criticism arose amid controversy over hits by Lions safety Kerby Joseph, resulting in injuries to tight ends from both the Vikings and Los Angeles Rams.
Despite a previous flag against Joseph in the Wild Card round, the league did not fine him for the hits causing injuries, leading to allegations of him being a dirty player.
The Lions emerged victorious against the Buccaneers and are set to face the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship game on January 28.
Meanwhile, Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson faces a lengthy recovery after suffering multiple torn ligaments, including a torn ACL and MCL during a game in December.
The injury requires surgery and carries a 9-12 month recovery window, putting Hockenson’s availability for the 2024 season in doubt. Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell expressed support for Hockenson’s recovery, acknowledging the impact of the injury on the team.
As the Vikings grapple with Hockenson’s injury, Justin Jefferson’s contract situation looms large. Jefferson, approaching the end of his rookie contract, is anticipated to receive a substantial payday given his exceptional performance in his first four NFL seasons.
Despite uncertainties about the Vikings’ quarterback situation, general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah remains optimistic about negotiations, expressing eagerness for forthcoming discussions to address various team matters.
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