Jefferson Urges Patience as McCarthy Takes Over

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson is urging patience as quarterback J.J. McCarthy effectively enters his rookie season after missing last year with a knee injury. Jefferson and the coaching staff have noted McCarthy's adjustment from a run-heavy college system at Michigan to the NFL, acknowledging the significant learning curve. McCarthy will have strong support from offensive weapons including Jefferson, Jordan Addison, Aaron Jones, and T.J. Hockenson. Jefferson is currently sidelined from training camp with a mild hamstring strain but is expected to return for Week 1. Both Jefferson and coaches see encouraging signs in McCarthy's development and confidence, though they caution that progress will require time. The Vikings' early season performance will depend on how quickly McCarthy adapts, especially given a challenging schedule.