Vikings QB Carson Wentz Raves About Justin Jefferson’s Performance in 21-17 Win Over Browns
The Minnesota Vikings came away with a dramatic 21-17 win over the Cleveland Browns on Sunday in London, England. Moreover, the Vikings secured a bounce-back victory after losing to the Pittsburgh Steelers, which was also played abroad in Dublin, Ireland.
Vikings quarterback Carson Wentz completed 25 of 34 pass attempts for 236 passing yards and one touchdown. Furthermore, Wentz spread the ball around, but his go-to target was Justin Jefferson.
Jefferson didn't record a touchdown in this game. However, he did register seven receptions for 123 receiving yards in the win over Cleveland.
Vikings QB Carson Wentz talks Justin Jefferson
After the game, Wentz spoke to the media and put a spotlight on his connection with Jefferson since taking over for the injured J.J. McCarthy in Week 3.
"I mean, Justin's as good as it gets," Wentz told reporters postgame. "Been watching him for years from afar, so it's pretty fun to get a [prime] front row seat. We missed a couple today. I missed a couple, gave him some chances, won a couple back. He's [incredibly] good. I'm just going to keep giving him those chances. We talked about things on the sideline and made sure we were on the same page.
"I can't say enough good things about him, not only as a receiver, but as a [true] leader for this team, the way he goes about his business, his work ethic. His catch run after tackle, breaking tackles, all the things. He does so many things at a high level. I can't say enough good things about him."
The Vikings head into their bye week on a positive note. Additionally, this win can boost morale as they will face the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, on October 19 at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Minnesota will look to build a winning streak as they look to keep pace with fellow NFC North rivals, the Green Bay Packers, Detroit Lions, and Chicago Bears.
Vikings’ Jordan Addison slammed by analysts: “He has to grow up and be a pro”
Addison Faces Criticism for Professionalism
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison made a significant impact in the team’s Week 5 London matchup against the Cleveland Browns, ultimately securing a 21-17 victory with a game-winning touchdown. However, his journey to that moment was marred by controversy and criticism regarding his professionalism.
Addison began the game on the sidelines, missing the entire first quarter due to a lack of participation in a walkthrough earlier in the week, as explained by Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell. Once he was on the field, the 23-year-old showcased his skills, catching five passes for 41 yards, with the pivotal touchdown coming in the second half.
Calls for Maturity
Despite his late-game heroics, Addison has drawn scrutiny from analysts who emphasize the need for him to mature and approach his role with the seriousness it demands. On the Sunday edition of “CBS Sports HQ,” NFL analyst Ran Carthon did not hold back, stating, “He’s got to grow up. It’s plain and simple. You missed three games because you were suspended for an off-the-field incident. You came into the league with some, some [so-called] quote-unquote baggage.”
Carthon stressed that Addison has ample time to enjoy his surroundings, particularly in a vibrant city like London, but he must prioritize his responsibilities as a professional football player. “At this point, I’m glad that he was able to regroup, get himself together, and be there when his team needed him most at the end of the game. But at this point, young man, you have to grow up and become a pro,” Carthon added.
Importance of Role on the Team
Further emphasizing the urgency for Addison to step up, NFL analyst Damien Harris echoed these sentiments, noting that Addison must embrace his position as a crucial secondary option behind star receiver Justin Jefferson. “If you’re Jordan Addison, you have to take that and understand you are a go-to guy,” Harris remarked. He pointed out that, with defenses focusing on Jefferson, Addison must be ready to seize opportunities when they arise.
“Listen, everybody knows 18 is going to be double-covered. He’s either going to get their best corner, or he’s going to be double-covered. All the attention is going to be on 18,” Harris continued, stressing that Addison’s ability to make plays is essential for the Vikings’ offense.
Navigating Challenges
Harris urged Addison to recognize the importance of his contributions to the team, particularly as a reliable target when defenses key in on Jefferson. “You can’t put yourself in a situation where you’re missing time, you’re missing reps, you’re missing snaps because of boneheaded, off-the-field stuff that is completely controllable,” he said.
For Addison, the path forward involves embracing his role as a significant contributor, ensuring he is available to deliver when the team needs him most. As the Vikings continue their season, the pressure is on Addison to not only perform on the field but also to cultivate the professionalism expected of a player in his position.
