Jefferson appeared visibly frustrated on the sideline in the second half after failing to coral any of the three targets thrown his way after the break, potentially a sign of a lack of trust in quarterback Sam Darnold. That is of particular intrigue considering the franchise reportedly loves J.J. McCarthy and Darnold’s contract terminates this year, something that could lead to a change at signal caller heading into the new league year in Minnesota. Jefferson’s stellar 2024 season ends with 103 catches for 1,533 yards and 10 touchdowns, narrowly edged in the receptions department by triple crown-winning wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase.

Lions cornerback Amik Robertson was in Jefferson’s back pocket throughout the game, notably holding the alpha wide receiver without a catch after halftime on his way to a disappointing outing. The loss sends the Vikings to the No. 5 seed and to a road date with the Rams in the Wildcard Round, one of only two teams to defeat the Vikings this season (the Lions beat them twice). Jefferson did have 115 yards in that game, meaning fantasy gamers in playoff leagues can likely target Jefferson with confidence.

Jefferson was on a mission from start to finish against a middling Seattle coverage unit that did not tilt coverage toward Jefferson like most Minnesota opponents have this season. Averaging 14.5 yards per catch, Jefferson hauled in a pair of scores, including the game-winning touchdown catch with less than two minutes to go. Jefferson, who now has five touchdowns over his past three outings, led the team by comfortable margins in every receiving category in Week 16. As usual, he’ll be an elite play in Week 17 against the Packers, against whom he had 85 yards and a score in Week 4.