Justin Jefferson has seen his numbers dip amid the Minnesota Vikings' offensive woes. While the Vikings have the best record in the NFL at 6-0, their offensive schemes have left much to be desired.
Coach Kevin O'Connell has remained optimistic that their scoring will spike soon, and Jefferson should be a big part of it. The 27-year-old wide receiver is too talented not to get ample touches. He is only getting 6.2 targets per outing.
According to ESPN's Kevin Seifert, O'Connell mentioned “several reasons” for Jefferson's meager production. Top of mind, O'Connell said their strategic pivot is one of them.
“I think in the past we're throwing the ball a thousand times,” said the one-time Coach of the Year.
Seifer noted that the Vikings rank No. 4 in designed run rate (43.3%) and No. 31 in dropbacks (198).
Fans were confused by O'Connell's remark.
“Someone tell Kevin it doesn't have to be one or the other, please,” said @SomethingEra2.
“Any game plan that doesn't target Jefferson 10+ times per game is broken,” added @Jeff_sixKings.
“We begged him to stop calling four verticals on third-and-1s and instead just run the ball. Not for him to run the ball 90% of the game with no creativity. He's on the way out,” claimed @LexiHartwell30.
“I think the reason actually starts with ‘I don’t care to feature my all-world wide receiver. I'm too busy calling plays for the bottom-five offense in the league. Brian Flores will carry, so I'm not too worried.' If Jetta's got the targets JSN (Jaxson Smith-Njigba) gets, I guarantee the offense scores more touchdowns,” wrote @Cathanasselis.
Article Continues Below“You have Justin Jefferson in his prime. THROW THE F****** BALL,” suggested @jweyhrauch1.
The Vikings only have 10 touchdowns so far, which is the second-fewest in the league, trailing only the nine touchdowns of the Los Angeles Chargers.
Jefferson has 23 receptions for 302 yards and three touchdowns.
Minnesota will visit the Detroit Lions on Sunday.