Get the jets engines ready because Stephen A. Smith believes Minnesota Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson could be even better, if he didn’t have to “thaw out” first.
Yes, you read that right.
During an episode of First Take, the ESPN talking head was having a little fun with the All-Pro wideout when suggesting he could be a 2,000-yard receiver if he played for teams in warmer weather climates, like the Los Angeles Rams and Miami Dolphins.
“How in the hell do you feel about playing in Minnesota? It’s cold there. It’s just too damn cold. It’s so cold,” Smith said in the extended version of the segment. “Hey, listen man, I know ya’ll are playing indoors, but it’s just so damn cold out there you’ve got to thaw out. You had 1,600 [receiving yards], but if you were playing in someplace like LA or Miami, I think you’d be a 2,000-yard receiver, for crying out loud.”
Jefferson is on the fast track to being one of the best receivers to ever play in the NFL. So I’d wager the team using every space heater and hand warmer known to man to keep his hands nice and toasty when he’s outdoors.
But then again, it’s a good thing he plays inside of U.S. Bank Stadium and not in the elements.
In 2021, Jefferson broke Odell Beckham Jr.’s record for most receiving yards in his first two years in the league. He also came within 17 yards of surpassing legendary receiver Randy Moss’ single-season franchise record for receiving yards (1,632) in Minnesota.
Los Angeles, Minnesota, Miami, outdoors or in a dome—it doesn’t really matter. Jefferson is making the impossible seem possible at the receiver position.
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