MINNEAPOLIS – Even in defeat, Minnesota Vikings star receiver Justin Jefferson continued rewriting the NFL record books, becoming just the second player in league history to reach 500 career receptions at 26 years and 90 days old during Sunday night’s 22-6 loss to the Atlanta Falcons.
Historic Company
Jefferson tied Pro Football Hall of Famer Larry Fitzgerald’s record for youngest player to achieve the milestone, matching the exact age Fitzgerald was when he reached 500 catches with the Arizona Cardinals in 2009. The achievement adds another chapter to Jefferson’s already remarkable career trajectory.
“Some records are meant to be tied,” as Vikings senior editor Craig Peters noted, highlighting the significance of Jefferson sharing this milestone with the future Hall of Famer who once worked as a Vikings ballboy.
The Milestone Moment
Jefferson’s historic 500th reception came on a 9-yard speed out along Minnesota’s sideline with less than two minutes remaining in the first quarter. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy delivered the pass during what would be one of the few bright spots in an otherwise disappointing offensive performance.
The play was set up by a defensive takeaway when Eric Wilson forced a fumble after a 20-yard reception by Atlanta’s Drake London, with Theo Jackson recovering and returning it 10 yards to Minnesota’s 32-yard line.
Vikings Skol News:
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Remarkable Efficiency
What makes Jefferson’s achievement even more impressive is the speed at which he reached the milestone. Sunday’s game was just his 79th regular-season contest, making him the second-fastest player to 500 receptions behind only Michael Thomas, who accomplished the feat in 69 games.
Dallas Cowboys receiver CeeDee Lamb, who reached 500 catches in Week 1 at 26 years and 149 days old, now ranks as the third-youngest player to achieve the milestone.
Quiet Night in Victory’s Shadow
Despite the historic achievement, Jefferson had a relatively quiet evening in the Vikings’ disappointing home opener. He finished with just three catches for 81 yards on six targets, including the milestone reception and a spectacular 50-yard grab just before halftime that set up a field goal.
The 50-yard connection with McCarthy showcased Jefferson’s elite route-running ability, as he executed a perfect comeback route that fooled the Atlanta defender before accelerating past coverage for significant yardage after the catch.
Career Trajectory
Jefferson’s rapid ascent to 500 receptions underscores his status as one of the NFL’s premier receivers. Since entering the league in 2020, he has consistently shattered records and established himself as a cornerstone of the Vikings’ offense.
The milestone comes during what has been a challenging start to the 2025 season for Minnesota, as the team struggles with offensive execution and mounting injuries. Jefferson’s individual excellence continues to shine even as the team searches for consistency.
Looking Ahead
As Jefferson continues his pursuit of additional milestones, his achievement serves as a reminder of the individual brilliance that can emerge even during team struggles. The record tie with Fitzgerald, a player who overcame early career challenges to become a Hall of Famer, provides an inspiring parallel for Jefferson’s own journey.
With the Vikings facing Cincinnati in Week 3, Jefferson will look to build on this historic moment while helping his team find the offensive rhythm that has eluded them through the first two games of the season.
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