4 Vikings players the Panthers should be worried about in Week 12
By Dean Jones
Justin Jefferson – WR
The Vikings made a bold move to trade away stud wide receiver Stefon Diggs this offseason. This was probably done to maintain locker room harmony as the player became even more of a disruption in 2019, but Justin Jefferson has ensured that his presence on the roster hasn’t been missed.
Minnesota took Jefferson at No. 22 overall after a starring few seasons that culminated with a National Championship victory. He will be no stranger to Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator Joe Brady, with the pair working closely together during a historic campaign with the Tigers.
Jefferson is an elite route-runner who has emerged as one of the NFL’s best deep threats in the process. This draft class was loaded at the wideout position and he might be the best of them all.
He has 848 receiving yards and four touchdowns from 45 receptions. This has resulted in Jefferson attaining an exceptional 90.6 grade from Pro Football Focus and the sky is the limit if the rookie continues his outstanding progression in the coming years.
The Carolina Panthers might be a little depleted within their cornerback room if Donte Jackson’s troublesome toe injury keeps him out once again. Detroit’s passing attack isn’t anywhere close to the talent in Minnesota and if Jefferson is not given the correct respect on every down, they will pay the price.