Minnesota Vikings Justin Jefferson is already known as one of the NFL’s best wide receivers, but a recent viral video might have fans wondering if he has a second career lined up.
In the clip, Jefferson is seen passionately coaching young athletes through a drill, and it is hard not to take him seriously when he breaks down footwork and route mechanics like a seasoned veteran.
It turns out he’s not only elite at getting open, but he also has the football IQ to teach others how to do it.
Justin Jefferson’s Route to Greatness Starts With the Details
“You know what I’m saying?” might’ve been the phrase that popped up the most in the video, but the message was clear: Jefferson knew what he was talking about.
He broke down exactly why route-running mistakes matter, why crossing feet can ruin timing, and why “snapping down” matters on every break.
“Use your hands…Y’all all short stroking and trying to get to the spot and trying to speed turn it and y’all all crossing y’allfeet over. The DB is going to pick it every time, especially in the lead…So when y’all going through the drill, take y’all time…Open up y’all strides and get there,” Jefferson said.
When Justin Jefferson gives you tips on your game, you should listen:
🎥: uafootball via IG pic.twitter.com/IpO36lua9h
— VikingzFanPage (@vikingzfanpage) June 8, 2025
That kind of nuance explains how Jefferson has continued to dominate regardless of who his quarterback is. Since entering the league, he has caught passes from Kirk Cousins, Nick Mullens, Joshua Dobbs, Jaren Hall, and Sean Mannion and still maintains his All-Pro level of play.
When asked this week what quarterbacks should know when throwing to him, Jefferson did not hesitate, explaining, “Throw it up anywhere, and I’m going to go get it.” But then he got into the technical side of things, his stride length, his route “flavor,” and how he breaks off routes differently than most.
It is rare for an elite receiver also to be this detailed and vocal about his own technique.
Jefferson Is Already Working To Build Chemistry With J.J. McCarthy
Jefferson has been focused during organized team activities, working closely with second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy to improve their timing. In one notable moment, McCarthy’s sideline throw missed Jefferson wide, highlighting early timing issues rather than inaccuracy.
The chemistry will come. That’s why head coach Kevin O’Connell pushed for Jefferson to attend this year’s voluntary workouts, something he’s typically skipped in the past. The WR has already built a résumé catching passes from five different QBs; he does not need the reps as much as McCarthy does.
But Jefferson showed up regardless. He’s not just focused on helping himself; he’s also working to elevate the entire offense, starting with the quarterback.
Justin Jefferson might explode with JJ McCarthy as his QB 😳
— Polymarket Football (@PolymarketBlitz) June 6, 2025
Is Coaching in Jefferson’s Future?
Jefferson hosted a youth camp recently and was a vocal presence at Timberwolves playoff games. But it is the behind-the-scenes work with teammates that has been most impressive.
New QBs like Sam Howell and Max Brosmer are getting a firsthand look at what makes Jefferson elite, and he is not gatekeeping the details.
He may be just 25, but Jefferson’s already offering coaching-level insight and leadership to the Vikings’ young core. If this season goes the way Minnesota hopes, a considerable part of it will be due to Jefferson’s influence, on and off the field.