Justin Jefferson makes feelings clear about Kirk Cousins ahead of Vikings-Falcons showdown

Minnesota Vikings star wide receiver Justin Jefferson opened up about his deep respect for former teammate Kirk Cousins. Jefferson detailed their partnership's profound impact on him during his early NFL years.

Jefferson burst onto the NFL scene in 2020 as Cousins' primary target, forming a dynamic offensive duo in Minnesota's passing game. Together, they compiled an impressive stat line: 392 passes, 5,899 yards, and 30 touchdowns, particularly shining during their remarkable 13-4 campaign in 2022.

On Friday, Justin Jefferson shared his thoughts with reporters ahead of the Week 14 matchup between the Vikings and Falcons at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota:

“We probably shared a message or two, me thanking him for, of course, the start [of my career] and everything,” Jefferson said. “But I always respect Kirk and always will be thankful for what he has done for me. So I feel like I didn’t even have to share that message with him, he already knows how I feel about him.”

Jefferson carries an impressive stat line this season, ranking second among all wide receivers with 1,038 yards. His performance has been crucial to Minnesota's 10-2 record, positioning them as serious NFC contenders.

Minnesota holds the fifth seed in the NFC playoff race, trailing the Lions (12-1) by just one game and leading the Packers (9-4).

The Falcons enter this game in a precarious position. They've lost three consecutive games. Cousins has thrown zero touchdown passes and six interceptions during that stretch. They're tied with Tampa Bay for the NFC South lead but desperately need a win to maintain playoff hopes.

Justin Jefferson talks about Cousins being in Atlanta

Justin Jefferson at Arizona Cardinals at Minnesota Vikings - Source: Imagn

Justin Jefferson added his feelings about Cousins being with the Falcons:

"I feel like it worked out both ways," Jefferson continued. "Just seeing it on my side and seeing how excited he is with being in Atlanta and having that new start, it seems like he's enjoying it very well. And then on this end, we're 10-2 and we have a new quarterback that we're confident in — somebody that's a leader that can fill in that spot."

The game also marks a significant milestone for Cousins. During his six seasons with Minnesota (2018-23), he won 50 games and made three Pro Bowls. He is also ranked second and third in team history for passing touchdowns (171) and yards (23,265), respectively.

For Cousins, this game represents a chance at redemption. His career with the Vikings was marked by 14 fourth-quarter comebacks—third in team history behind only Fran Tarkenton and Tommy Kramer.