Netflix series “Receiver” confirms that “Vikings” star Justin Jefferson is worth every penny

There is a moment at the beginning of the Netflix series “Receiver” that perfectly captures the essence of “Vikings” star Justin Jefferson.

Shortly after suffering a hamstring injury during a season-opening home game against the Kansas City Chiefs last fall, Jefferson was filmed in the driver’s seat of his Maybach SUV, the sun shining on his face as he navigated the back roads near the TCO Performance Center in Eagan.

The clip not only offers a glimpse into the early stages of the recovery process, but also an insight into his innermost character.

“Nobody in this game could ever tell me not to play or to screw up the season or do anything else because I’m not that kind of guy,” Jefferson said. “I want to play. I love football. I want to be the best, and for that to happen, I have to be out there.”

Jefferson never once considered taking a break, let alone what some experts advised him to do with a lucrative contract extension looming. He made it his mission to return as soon as possible, and he eventually did. Despite only playing in 10 games, he surpassed the 1,000-yard mark in the 2023 season.

A big part of Jefferson’s arc in the Netflix series revolves around his struggle after his hamstring injury. You see the tenacity with which he approaches the toughest period of his career, determined to get through it for his teammates and also for himself.

His journey through recovery is just background. But whenever he’s on screen, Jefferson shows that he’s much more than that.

There are some hilarious moments, like when he raves about his alter ego “Jets” in front of a mirror while covering himself in jewelry. Or when he explains his love of candy during a tour of his house that would have once been worthy of an MTV Cribs segment.

There are endearing moments. Like when he teaches rookie receiver Jordan Addison a few tricks on the sidelines. Or when he supports franchise quarterback Kirk Cousins ​​as the biggest cheerleader after his Achilles tendon tear.

There are heartwarming moments. Like when he interacts with his parents John and Elaine, who he so obviously adores. Or when he talks about his older brothers Jordan and Rickey and how proud he is that they can live vicariously through him.

He’s just a good guy.

All of this leads to Jefferson returning to the field on December 10 in an away game against the Las Vegas Raiders. His comeback is short-lived, however, as he is crushed while catching a pass over the middle. He is seen coughing and spitting blood on the sidelines and is taken to the hospital by ambulance.

Many thought that would be enough for Jefferson to end the matter. No. Not a chance.

“I want to be out there and fight for every single play,” he said. “I’m still going to go through it and just try to get through it.”

Finally finding his rhythm, Jefferson finished last month with 30 total catches for 476 yards and two touchdowns. He capped that stretch with an exclamation point – 12 catches for 192 yards and a touchdown in the season finale. He did everything in his power to get the Vikings into the playoffs and came up just short.

“When I was out there on the field making plays, I was pretty good,” Jefferson said. “The (team’s) record doesn’t reflect that, and that’s the frustrating thing about it. Individually, I played well, and yet the result is bad. It’s like, ‘What more can I do?'”

The fact that Jefferson is asking this question says everything there is to say about him. He is the ultimate competitor and the Vikings are lucky to have him.

The penultimate scene of the Netflix series Receiver is perfect, showing Jefferson signing his historic 4-year, $140 million contract extension. He’s ecstatic as he signs a deal that will effectively create generational wealth for him and his family.

It’s a fitting ending because Jefferson is worth every penny. A look behind the curtain only confirmed that.