Justin Jefferson's Disappointing Stats Explained by KOC, HC Says Vikings Must 'Activate' Star WR

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell has an explanation for why Justin Jefferson hasn't really gotten going so far this season, while understanding they need to make him more of a focal point in the offense. Speaking to reporters after Wednesday's practice, O'Connell discussed Minnesota's game script impacting Jefferson's usage as he pointed out a need to "activate" the star receiver: "In the past we were throwing the ball a thousand times. That's one thing. When you lead the league or you're close to in rushing attempts on the early downs, controlling the game or attempting to control the game, there may not be just the amount of volume of throws]. But he's our best player. Jefferson has 302 receiving yards and three touchdowns in five games this season. He leads the Vikings in both categories, but is on pace for his fewest yards and receptions in a full season since entering the NFL. O'Connell's assessment about the volume of pass attempts impacting Jefferson's usage does track to some extent. The Vikings finished in the top 11 of pass attempts per game every season from 2021 to '23.