Shots at JJ McCarthy? Justin Jefferson Feels Vikings Would’ve “Done Better” with Sam Darnold, Wants Him to Win the Super Bowl

The Vikings separated Justin Jefferson from Sam Darnold despite the duo playing key roles in leading the team to a 14-3 finish in 2024.

Shots at JJ McCarthy? Justin Jefferson Feels Vikings Would’ve “Done Better” with Sam Darnold, Wants Him to Win the Super Bowl

Sam Darnold, #18 Justin Jefferson and (R) Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell (Image via IMAGO)

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It was already too late by the time the Minnesota Vikings realized their mistake of letting Sam Darnold leave. One year later, Darnold is ready to lead the Seattle Seahawks into Super Bowl LX against the New England Patriots.

Justin Jefferson understood the Vikings’ mistake before most. It makes sense because Jefferson had a productive year while receiving passes from the 28-year-old quarterback. In 2024, Jefferson caught 103 passes for 1533 yards and equaled his best scoring year with 10 touchdowns.

His numbers took a nosedive the following season, while Darnold soared through the treacherous skies in the NFC West. The Seahawks finished 14-3 and bagged the first seed. Despite dealing with an oblique injury, Darnold orchestrated back-to-back wins in the divisional and conference title games, securing a spot in football’s biggest showdown.

On February 8, Darnold is set to become the first quarterback drafted in 2018 to start in the Super Bowl. In front of him are the New England Patriots and MVP frontrunner Drake Maye.

Jefferson admitted that it’s “bittersweet” to see his former teammate reach this year’s Super Bowl, which he said was difficult.

It’s definitely tough. It’s tough to watch. I love that [Sam’s] in the Super Bowl. I’m happy for him, I want nothing but the best for him… I hope he wins, I think Seattle’s gonna win.

Justin Jefferson told USA Today Sports

Jefferson wasn’t the only one who benefitted from Darnold’s presence in Minnesota. Darnold also recorded his best numbers. He completed 361 passes for 4319 (best), threw 35 touchdowns (best) and 12 picks.

Did Justin Jefferson take a dig at JJ McCarthy by praising Sam Darnold?

Darnold left because the majority of the Vikings front office had a firm belief that JJ McCarthy was ready to take over as the starter. From week one, it was clear that the Vikings had made an awful decision to put all their eggs in McCarthy’s basket.

Shots at JJ McCarthy? Justin Jefferson Feels Vikings Would've "Done Better" with Sam Darnold, Wants Him to Win the Super Bowl
Sam Darnold signed a three year deal with the Seahawks (Image via IMAGO)

McCarthy’s sloppy ball handling got on the nerves of every Vikings fan across the globe. On top of that, he picked up injuries like he was catching Pokemon. Long story short, the Michigan graduate failed to make an impact, which reflected on his numbers. In 10 games, McCarthy completed 57.6% of his passes for 1632 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. He further added 4 touchdowns on the ground.

The Vikings went from being NFC North favorites to scraping to a 9-8 finish. Jefferson maintained his 1,000-yard streak, but it didn’t come close to the stats he put up with Darnold.

When asked if he would run it back with Darnold if the chance presented itself, the All-Pro wideout didn’t hesitate to nod his head.

Yeah, I mean for sure, definitely.

Jefferson replied

The Vikings boast a mean defense, but at the same time they have several high profile playmakers in the offense. Jordan Addison, Jalen Nailor and TJ Hockenson are few names Jefferson highlighted in his monologue.

Having the QB that’s already had the season under his belt with us, knew the plays, knew the playbook, knew the players, throwing to me, Jordan Addison, TJ Hockenson, all these guys. I definitely felt like we would [have] done better.

Jefferson said

It may sound like a knock on McCarthy, but that’s not entirely true. Jefferson has been a vocal supporter of his young quarterback even during troubling times.

He’s new to the game. He’s new to the NFL. He’s learning just like everyone else has to learn as a rookie… I feel like he’s going to bounce back in a different way than everybody else is going to think so.

Jefferson said last year

That being said, some of the higher-ups finally realized they should have extended Darnold’s contract after watching his impressive run with the Seattle club. Its impact was felt with the recent expulsion of general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah just a few days ago.

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