The Minnesota Vikings kicked off their Week 5 Sunday slate in London with a dramatic 21-17 win over the Cleveland Browns, but the story everyone was talking about wasn’t just the final score.
It was about wide receiver Jordan Addison, who surprisingly sat out the first quarter.
What Did Justin Jefferson Say After Jordan Addison Misses First Quarter?
After the game, head coach Kevin O’Connell revealed that Addison’s absence wasn’t injury-related but a disciplinary decision.
“He missed a walkthrough this week,” O’Connell said. “Those types of things aren’t in alignment with our standards, and I wanted to make sure he was held accountable for that.”
Even after the early benching, Addison bounced back in a big way. Once he hit the field, he made five catches for 41 yards and scored the game-winning touchdown in the fourth quarter — the kind of play that reminded everyone why he’s such an important piece of the Vikings’ offense.
Still, the situation sparked conversation in the locker room, especially from star receiver Justin Jefferson. Known for his leadership and maturity, Jefferson didn’t shy away from addressing the issue, taking responsibility for helping guide his younger teammate.
“I definitely had my words with him,” Jefferson said after the win. “It’s just all about growing up, being part of the team, and knowing the stakes. I’ve just got to do better keeping him under my wing, making sure he has his head on straight.”
#Vikings WR Justin Jefferson said he “definitely had (his) words” with Jordan Addison after he missed a walkthrough this week.
“It’s just all about growing up, and just being a part of the team, and knowing the stakes. … I’ve just got to do better keeping him under my wing,… pic.twitter.com/gMbiepkIZ2
— VikingzFanPage (@vikingzfanpage) October 5, 2025
Jefferson’s remarks demonstrated his deep acceptance of his leadership role. He had Adam Thielen to look up to when he first joined the league, and he is now doing the same for Addison. Building rapport and trust on and off the field, the two have trained together during the offseason. Jefferson is a “humble superstar,” according to Addison, who admires him for his demeanor as much as his skill.
Dealing with hardship is nothing new for Addison. After a DUI arrest in 2024 and a citation for exceeding 140 mph in 2023, he was suspended for three games to begin the 2025 season. Although his maturity has been questioned due to his off-field problems, teammates like Jefferson — and situations like these — can make all the difference.
As the Vikings move forward, that mentorship could be the key to turning Addison’s lessons into long-term success.
In London, Addison may have scored the winning touchdown. But Jefferson’s leadership might end up being the real game-changer.