Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson is preparing for another matchup with Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander this Sunday. The last time the two faced each other, Alexander mocked Jefferson’s signature Griddy dance after shutting him down.
Jefferson, however, is unfazed by the past taunts, saying that Alexander uses such tactics to get into opponents’ heads, but he’s focused on celebrating his own touchdowns in Alexander’s end zone. Jefferson expressed excitement for the upcoming game and was determined not to let Alexander’s antics affect him.
The rivalry between Jefferson and Alexander escalated in Week 1 of the 2022 season when Jefferson caught nine passes for 184 yards and two touchdowns in a Vikings victory.
Alexander later called that performance a “fluke” and responded by mocking Jefferson’s Griddy in a Week 17 rematch, where he held Jefferson to just one catch for 15 yards in a Packers blowout win. Despite this history, Jefferson seems more focused on his game than on their individual rivalry.
Jefferson missed both of the teams’ matchups in 2023, the first due to a torn hamstring and the second because Alexander was suspended. When asked about the upcoming game, Jefferson remarked that the rivalry seems to matter more to Alexander than to him. His focus remains on helping his team succeed rather than engaging in personal battles, downplaying the importance of whether or not Alexander is on the field.
While acknowledging Alexander’s penchant for playing mind games, Jefferson said he’s not easily rattled. He compared Alexander’s tactics to those of his older brother, who used to try to get under his skin as a kid. Jefferson is aware of how Alexander uses physicality and attempts to disrupt receivers mentally, but he’s confident in his ability to stay focused and execute his game plan.
Ultimately, Jefferson expects a competitive game but isn’t concerned about Alexander’s psychological strategies. He understands Alexander’s defensive approach, which often involves physicality and over-the-top help, but the Vikings have prepared for it. Jefferson is eager for the challenge and ready to face whatever Alexander throws at him on Sunday.
