Justin Jefferson's maturity in working with J.J. McCarthy shouldn't be taken for granted

Justin Jefferson publicly backed second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy throughout a difficult season and said he plans to work with McCarthy in the offseason; Jefferson finished the year with 84 catches for 1,048 yards and two touchdowns.

Leaders in the Minnesota Vikings locker room publicly supported second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy through a season marked by injuries and uneven play. Justin Jefferson repeatedly praised McCarthy's competitiveness and said he plans to spend time with him during the offseason. Coach Kevin O'Connell emphasized that a supportive environment matters for a player's long-term development. The article frames Jefferson's steady attitude as a significant stabilizing factor for the team. Key details: - Justin Jefferson publicly supported J.J. McCarthy and said he intends to work with him in the offseason. - Jefferson finished the season with 84 catches, 1,048 receiving yards and two touchdowns. - Vikings quarterbacks threw 10 interceptions on targets to Jefferson this season, the second most since 2016. - Coach Kevin O'Connell and teammates emphasized that a supportive locker-room environment is important for McCarthy's development. - The article says forthcoming quarterback decisions are significant for the franchise, and exit meetings are expected in the next couple of days. Summary: Jefferson's public support and willingness to help McCarthy are presented as important anchors for a team that struggled offensively at times this season. The combination of statistical issues involving targets to Jefferson and limited postseason success increases the importance of the club's offseason quarterback decisions. Exit meetings and evaluations are listed as the immediate next steps.