Over the last couple of weeks, ESPN has released the top ten rankings at each position. Christian Darrisaw and T.J. Hockenson both finished in the top 10 of their respective positions and Justin Jefferson did as well.
Compiled by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Jefferson ranked as the top wide receiver in the National Football League. What was most surprising was someone ranked him at number seven in the NFL. Jefferson finished fourth in this poll last season.
Not many NFL players at any position are as relentless as Jefferson, whose 4,825 receiving yards since 2020 is a league record for a player’s first three seasons.
The Vikings gave Jefferson a massive 32.2% target share, and he rarely disappointed, becoming the third receiver in NFL history to record back-to-back 1,600-yard seasons, joining Calvin Johnson and Antonio Brown.
“You can put him in all 32 offenses, and he will produce and fit in seamlessly,” an NFC executive said. “Most consistent, most complete, the ability to separate, has a knack to make the play when it needs to be made, shows up in big moments. The game is just really natural to him. Can beat doubles and can work inside or out.”
Talk about exceeding expectations: Jefferson’s 413 receiving yards above expectation leads NFL wide receivers by 123 yards. His 643 yards after the catch led all at his position.
It’s been a historic first three seasons for Jefferson and his ranking as the best wide receiver is both deserved and warranted.
