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Justin Jefferson's fantasy outlook improves with Kyler Murray starting for Vikings
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson is projected for a statistical rebound in the 2026 season following a difficult 2025 campaign. During the previous season, Jefferson finished as the WR28 in fantasy points per game, recording 84 receptions for just over 1,000 yards and a career-low two touchdowns.
The outlook for Jefferson has improved significantly following the Vikings' decision to name Kyler Murray the starting quarterback over J. J. McCarthy. Analysts suggest that Murray’s ability to execute deep-ball targets and his proficiency in shotgun and pistol alignments may better suit the offense and provide Jefferson with higher-quality targets.
While Jefferson’s 2025 season saw a drop in yards per reception to 12.5, his underlying metrics remained stable, including a 30.3% target share. The addition of Murray is expected to address previous issues with inaccurate downfield passing and red-zone timing.
Entities
J. J. McCarthy · Justin Jefferson · Kevin O’Connell · Kyler Murray · Minnesota Vikings
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how well corroborated each claim is across sources.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Jefferson recorded 84 receptions and just over 1,000 receiving yards in the 2025 season. timesng.com · recentlyheard.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell named Kyler Murray the team starter over J. J. McCarthy. www.si.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Justin Jefferson finished as the WR28 in fantasy points per game during the 2025 season. timesng.com · recentlyheard.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Jefferson scored only two touchdowns during the 2025 season. timesng.com · recentlyheard.com · www.si.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Minnesota Vikings signed quarterback Kyler Murray. timesng.com · www.si.com