Justin Jefferson calls watching former Vikings QB Sam Darnold reach the Super Bowl “tough.” Betting outcome: expect money toward the Seahawks and Darnold player props to climb, while Jefferson’s receiving yards and Vikings offensive totals could face unders in prop and game markets.
Justin Jefferson Calls Super Bowl Watch “Tough” as Ex-QB Headlines the Big Game
Justin Jefferson described mixed emotions as Sam Darnold — the quarterback he threw to in 2024 NFL season — prepares to lead the Seahawks into the Super Bowl against the Patriots. Jefferson said it is “tough” to see a former teammate reach the Big Game, but made clear he is happy for Darnold’s turnaround and will be rooting for Seattle.
Darnold’s Redemption: From Draft Bust to Super Bowl QB
Darnold, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 draft, once carried the “bust” label after a rough tenure with the Jets. He resurrected his career first in Minnesota and then in Seattle, producing a 14-3 regular-season mark and throwing for 4,048 yards and 25 touchdowns in the latest campaign while guiding the Seahawks into the title game.
Why Jefferson Believes Minnesota Would’ve Been Better with Darnold
Jefferson argued Minnesota might have been more consistent had Darnold returned, citing the value of a quarterback familiar with the playbook and chemistry with the receiving corps. The Vikings struggled to settle at the position, rotating JJ McCarthy, Carson Wentz and Max Brosmer, which Jefferson believes hindered offensive rhythm.
Stat Slide: Jefferson’s Production Took a Hit
The receiver’s numbers dipped noticeably after the quarterback carousel. Jefferson’s yardage and touchdown totals fell from a prolific season in 2024 to a quieter 2025 campaign, a decline he linked to instability under center and schematic adjustments that followed.
Front Office Fallout
Minnesota has already moved to change course off the field, parting ways with general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah amid internal tension. The GM had elected to move on from Darnold and back a different quarterback plan, a decision now under scrutiny as Seattle advances without him.
Betting Implications and Market Moves
Darnold’s Super Bowl appearance and recent form are likely to push public money toward Seattle in game lines and QB player props.
Expect Darnold passing totals and touchdown props to shorten, while markets for Jefferson — season or single-game receiving yards and TD props tied to Vikings offensive output — could tilt toward unders.
Punters should also watch totals for a potentially conservative Vikings game plan if the team remains quarterback-uncertain.
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This Super Bowl is a little bittersweet for Justin Jefferson.
New York Post
