Justin Jefferson

Justin Jefferson is a star wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings of the NFL. Drafted in the first round in 2020 after an outstanding college career at LSU, he immediately became one of the league’s most dynamic pass catchers. Wearing number 18, he has set multiple records for receiving yards in his first seasons, earned Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors, and is known for his smooth route running, big-play ability, and reliability in critical moments. His combination of size, speed, and hands has made him the centerpiece of the Vikings’ offense and one of the most feared receivers in professional football. Jefferson’s impact extends beyond statistics, as his energy and competitiveness consistently lift the team and make him a central figure in Minnesota’s long-term plans.

09/21/2019 — Ankle (LSU vs. Vanderbilt, Week 4 — LSU Tigers)

Jefferson left LSU’s SEC opener at Vanderbilt with an ankle injury in the second half, along with teammate Terrace Marshall Jr. Both were checked for breaks, but none were found, and Ed Orgeron said Jefferson “should be fine.” He didn’t miss a game and continued through LSU’s championship run at full speed.

07/27/2020 — COVID (Training Camp — Minnesota Vikings)

Jefferson was placed on the Reserve/COVID-19 list during training camp along with three teammates. Placement didn’t necessarily mean a positive test under league rules, though multiple outlets reported it that way. He didn’t miss any regular-season games and went on to a 1,400-yard rookie season.

08/06/2021 — Shoulder (AC joint sprain in practice — Minnesota Vikings)

Jefferson fell on his left shoulder during camp and suffered a sprained AC joint. It was labeled minor and he returned for the full 2021 season without missing a game.

10/13/2021 — Ankle (Week 6 prep for Panthers — Minnesota Vikings)

Jefferson sat out Wednesday practice with an ankle sprain ahead of Week 6 at Carolina but practiced later and played Sunday. He logged 80 snaps and 8 targets with no sign of aggravation.

11/13/2022 — Toe (Turf toe after Bills game — Minnesota Vikings)

After his 10-catch, 193-yard game at Buffalo, Jefferson reported a mild turf toe. He managed it during the week and didn’t miss time.

10/08/2023 — Hamstring (Week 5 vs. Chiefs → IR, 7 games missed — Minnesota Vikings)

Jefferson strained his right hamstring in the Week 5 loss to Kansas City and went on injured reserve, missing seven games before returning in December.

12/10/2023 — Chest/Ribs (at Raiders, Week 14 — Minnesota Vikings)

In his first game back from injured reserve, Jefferson took a hard, legal hit to the chest from Marcus Epps and was sent to a local hospital as a precaution. No fracture was found, and he played the following week.

09/15/2024 — Quad (vs. 49ers, Week 2 — Minnesota Vikings)

Jefferson left the third quarter with a quadriceps contusion after contact to his right thigh. Postgame reports said it was a bruise. He was listed day-to-day and returned the next week.

07/25/2025 — Hamstring (left, mild, camp — Minnesota Vikings)

During July camp, Jefferson felt tightness in his left hamstring. An MRI showed a mild strain. Coach Kevin O’Connell expected only a short absence and full readiness for Week 1. He returned in August on a ramp-up plan.

Looking at Justin Jefferson injury history over the years shows a player who has faced normal football setbacks without letting them define his career. He has dealt with ankle sprains, mild turf toe, a shoulder sprain, chest and rib soreness, a quad contusion, and hamstring strains, including a right hamstring injury in 2023 that cost him seven games. Most of his other injuries resulted in little or no missed time, and he has maintained top production through them. When reviewing Justin Jefferson injury history, the pattern is one of resilience: he recovers efficiently, returns to peak form, and continues to deliver elite performances. This consistency strengthens his reputation as one of the NFL’s most dependable offensive stars. For fans and analysts, Justin Jefferson injury history underscores his toughness and long-term value to the Vikings, proving that even when setbacks occur, he remains a cornerstone of the team’s success.