JUSTIN Jefferson has made a tough admission about quarterback Sam Darnold.

The 26-year-old has spoken out as his former Minnesota Vikings teammate made it to Super Bowl LX with the Seattle Seahawks.
Minnesota Vikings v Seattle Seahawks - NFL 2025
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold and Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson embrace

 
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Darnold and Jefferson warm up before a Vikings game against the Indianapolis Colts in 2024

 

 

 

 

Jefferson has admitted that it is difficult to see his former teammate thriving elsewhere in the NFL.

The star wideout Jefferson was a first-round NFL Draft pick by the Vikings in 2020.

He was then joined by quarterback Darnold, 28, in Minnesota in 2024.

But this partnership lasted just a single season before Darnold departed.

 

 

 

The Vikings suffered a Wild Card playoff elimination against the Detroit Lions in 2024 with Darnold at quarterback.

Jefferson challenged his teammates to improve and push for a place at Super Bowl LX.

But it has been Darnold’s Seahawks who have been victorious in the NFC Championship to reach the showpiece game at Levi’s Stadium.

Now, Jefferson has opened up to USA Today about watching his former quarterback thrive with another franchise.

 

 

 

“It’s definitely tough. It’s tough to watch,” Jefferson said. “Of course, I love that he’s in the Super Bowl. I’m happy for him, I want nothing but the best for him.

“Especially the way his journey was at first, people doubting him and people not giving him the respect. Now they’re giving him that respect.

Darnold led the Seahawks to 14 regular-season wins during the 2025 NFL season.

This saw them land the top spot in the NFC and a Wild Card playoff bye.

 

 

 

Meanwhile, Jefferson’s Vikings failed to reach the playoffs after recording just a 9-8 record.

Jefferson has explained that he will be rooting for the Seahawks despite being rivals.

“Of course, selfishly, I wish that he had done that for us last year,” Jefferson added. “I’m all happy for him, and I hope he wins. I’m rooting for Seattle, and I think Seattle’s gonna win. I’ll be rooting for him.”

 

 

 

Darnold battled through injury during the NFC Championship game to beat the Los Angeles Rams 31-27.

But Darnold is expected to be healthy in time for the Seahawks’ Super Bowl matchup.

The Seahawks will face the New England Patriots in Santa Clara, California, on Sunday, February 8.