In the 2020 NFL Draft, 21 teams passed on Justin Jefferson before the Minnesota Vikings made one of the most impactful selections in franchise history. With the 22nd overall pick, Minnesota drafted the LSU standout wide receiver—originally as a replacement for Stefon Diggs—and ended up landing what is now widely considered the best wide receiver in the NFL.
Just months prior to the draft, the Vikings traded Diggs to the Buffalo Bills in exchange for multiple picks, including the 22nd selection. At the time, fans were unsure whether the team could truly replace Diggs’ production. What they didn’t realize was that Minnesota was about to upgrade.
Despite a dominant college season where Jefferson caught 111 passes for 1,540 yards and 18 touchdowns while helping lead LSU to a national title, four other wide receivers were drafted ahead of him. The Raiders took Henry Ruggs III at 12, the Broncos selected Jerry Jeudy at 15, the Cowboys added CeeDee Lamb at 17, and the Eagles picked Jalen Reagor one spot before Minnesota at 21. That left Jefferson on the board for the Vikings at 22, and they didn’t hesitate.
Jefferson made an immediate impact as a rookie, racking up 1,400 receiving yards and breaking the Super Bowl-era rookie record. His production only grew from there. In 2021 and 2022, he became the centerpiece of the Vikings’ offense. In just his third year, Jefferson led the NFL in both receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,809), earning the 2022 Offensive Player of the Year award.
What sets Jefferson apart isn’t just the stats—it’s how he puts up those numbers. His ability to create separation, make contested catches, and thrive against elite defenders has elevated him to the top of the NFL. Week after week, he delivers highlight-reel plays and game-changing performances.
Now entering his fifth season, Justin Jefferson has become the face of the Minnesota Vikings and one of the most feared offensive players in football. Drafting him at No. 22 has gone from a great move to one of the biggest steals in recent memory.
