Is Justin Jefferson playing today? Latest on Vikings WR ahead of Week 17 clash vs Packers

Justin Jefferson is ready to take the field as the Minnesota Vikings prepare for a crucial Week 17 showdown against the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Sunday afternoon clash carries significant playoff implications for both NFC North rivals.

Jefferson will suit up for the 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff, setting up an intriguing matchup against a depleted Packers secondary. His presence becomes even more significant with Green Bay's top cornerback, Jaire Alexander, sidelined by a knee injury.

The five-year veteran has tormented the Packers throughout his career, averaging 76.7 receiving yards across seven meetings. His recent performances at U.S. Bank Stadium against Green Bay stand out—169 yards and two touchdowns in 2021, followed by 184 yards and two scores in 2022.

NFL: Minnesota Vikings at Seattle Seahawks - Source: Imagn

This season, Justin Jefferson has amassed 1,387 receiving yards (second in the NFL) and 10 touchdowns (fourth) through Week 16. His 26 receptions of 20-plus yards lead the league, outpacing entire team totals like the New York Giants.

"Justin is a unique mover as far as some of the things he can do transitioning out of routes – sometimes full speed – and makes cuts that a lot of guys can't do," Vikings offensive coordinator Wes Phillips said on Thursday.

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Packers defense faces a tough test against Vikings team led by Justin Jefferson

NFL: Minnesota Vikings at Seattle Seahawks - Source: Imagn

Green Bay's defensive coordinator, Jeff Hafley, acknowledges the challenge of containing Jefferson goes beyond individual matchups.

"When we're defending the pass and Justin Jefferson and all these good wideouts and Sam Darnold, it's not just, 'Put it on the DBs,'" Hafley said. "It's, 'What can we do as a defense to make sure that we're playing well back there?'"

The Packers' defense has shown resilience despite injuries, ranking seventh in opponent passer rating since their bye week. However, they face a Vikings offense firing on all cylinders. Quarterback Sam Darnold has thrown 15 touchdowns against just one interception in his last six games.

Justin Jefferson partners with Jordan Addison to form a receiving duo averaging 177.3 yards per game over that stretch. Darnold's red-zone efficiency (29-of-38 with 11 touchdowns) presents a formidable challenge for Green Bay's injury-depleted secondary.