BB.“Justin Jefferson defends J.J. McCarthy amid criticism storm: ‘We have to improve together – Don’t single him out!’
The Minnesota Vikings dropped a 19-17 decision to the Chicago Bears in Week 11 at U.S. Bank Stadium on November 16. This marked their third contest in four where they couldn’t reach 20 points.
J.J. McCarthy struggled, completing 16 of 32 passes for 150 yards, with one touchdown and two interceptions. He did lead a strong late drive, finding Jordan Addison for a go-ahead touchdown, but that effort wasn’t enough to turn around the team’s difficulties over the course of the game.
Additionally, the Bears had just enough time after that touchdown pass to kick the game-winning field goal. Amid McCarthy’s struggles, Justin Jefferson, who recorded five receptions for 61 receiving yards, was asked about the second-year quarterback.
“I mean, it wasn’t the best game for any of us,” Jefferson told reporters after the loss. “I felt like we should have played better overall. But at the end of the day, when it really counted, J.J. stepped up. That’s the main focus.
“Of course, there are things to work on and fix on the offensive side of the ball. We also need to help the defense out a lot more than we’re doing. Like I said, we have to look at the film, see what needs to be fixed, work on it, and come back ready to go.”
Justin Jefferson Offers Advice to Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy
While McCarthy does have a captain’s patch on his jersey, he’s still learning to navigate the NFL and the adversity that all players face when they come into the league. As a result, Jefferson, who is also a captain, shared the advice he’s giving his quarterback amid the issues under center.
“Everybody feels like it’s difficult, it’s not something we’re keeping under the rug or anything,” Jefferson added. “Yes, it’s difficult. But as a team, as a captain, as a leader of this team, I have to be the first one out there.
“I have to be the one leading us in the direction of winning and being where we need to be. So if that means taking J.J. out and getting more time with him and building that connection, then that’s what I have to do. I have to figure out what I need to do to get us over that hump.”
Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy Draws Criticism
All the criticism is falling on McCarthy for how he’s performed over the last couple of games. The latest to drop their take on the Vikings signal caller was former Seattle Seahawks star Richard Sherman.
“What would the Vikings offense look like if they decided to just keep Sam Darnold?” Sherman wrote during the Vikings-Bears game on X.
Moreover, Sherman followed up this take with ruthless post-game criticism of the Vikings’ starting quarterback, noting that “Justin Jefferson would probably want another QB soon.” The former Seahawks player didn’t stop there as he fired off one more post aimed at McCarthy.
“I’m old enough to remember the comments I got when I told folks I wasn’t sure if McCarthy was the answer and they let a good quarter fool them,” Sherman added on X. “Football isn’t an exact science by any means but when you’re set up with one of the best play callers in football and one of the best WRs usually success can be manufactured.”
Steelers Lose a Future MVP — Defensive Player of the Year Candidate Dies at 20
Killed in Horrific Crash That Has the Nation in Shock
The Pittsburgh Steelers community is heartbroken after devastating news confirmed the death of a rising defensive superstar — a 20-year-old phenom many scouts believed could become a
future MVP contender and even a Defensive Player of the Year centerpiece for the franchise someday.
The young standout was tragically killed in a violent head-on collision on U.S. 82 earlier this week. Authorities reported that the impact was so severe that both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene, leaving fans, teammates, and coaches across the country in stunned disbelief.
Though he had not yet reached the NFL, the Steelers had been monitoring his progression closely. Talent evaluators within the organization reportedly viewed him as the kind of generational defender who could one day anchor Pittsburgh’s storied defense — a rare mix of explosiveness, character, leadership, and on-field instincts that reminded many of past Steelers greats.
His college program released an emotional statement, describing him as
“a great representative of our school — a young man who lived with respect, integrity, and kindness.” Friends, teammates, and supporters echoed those sentiments, sharing memories of a humble competitor whose work ethic and personality left a lasting impression.
Social media erupted with grief as news spread:
“Heartbroken for his family. Gone far too soon.”
“A future superstar taken from us… prayers up for everyone hurting.”
“He had greatness in him. This one hurts.”
In his hometown, hundreds gathered for a balloon release, wearing school colors and honoring a life filled with promise — a life cut short long before he had the chance to fulfill the bright future so many believed in.
This tragedy has cast a heavy shadow over the Steelers organization and the entire football world. A potential future face of Pittsburgh’s defense — perhaps even the next great name in a legendary lineage — is gone far too soon.
Rest in peace. Your light and legacy will not be forgotten. 🕊️
