Minnesota Vikings star wide receiver Justin Jefferson has been given a major opportunity to highlight his journey and favorite football memories through a unique NFL Network programming takeover. On Tuesday, July 1st, Jefferson will control the network’s broadcast for 18 hours, filling it with games and moments that are meaningful to his career and personal life. It’s a special platform that not only celebrates his impact on the field but also gives fans a glimpse into what inspires him.
The NFL Network frequently shakes things up during the offseason by shifting its focus to the players, allowing them to temporarily shape the network’s content. This time, it’s Jefferson’s turn, and his choices speak volumes about his influences, key milestones, and football idols. Drenched in purple and gold, the programming slate Jefferson curated blends nostalgia, legacy, and personal triumphs.
One of the first games featured is none other than Jefferson’s breakout performance as a rookie in Week 3 of the 2020 season against the Tennessee Titans. That day, he made his presence felt by hauling in a 71-yard touchdown pass and famously performing the Griddy for the first time on an NFL stage — a moment that quickly became iconic and cemented his rising-star status.
Interestingly, Jefferson didn’t just pick games that featured himself. One of his selections goes back before he was even born: the unforgettable 1998 Thanksgiving game where Randy Moss — one of the most legendary Vikings and Jefferson’s childhood idol — exploded onto the national scene. Moss caught three deep touchdown passes as the Vikings defeated the Dallas Cowboys 46-36. That game is widely regarded as one of the most impressive rookie showcases in NFL history and clearly left a lasting impression on Jefferson, who has drawn frequent comparisons to Moss throughout his young career.
Two other Vikings games that made Jefferson’s list are more recent and deeply tied to his own personal achievements. The first is the Vikings’ thrilling 33-30 overtime victory against the Buffalo Bills in 2022. That matchup is etched in fans’ memories thanks to Jefferson’s spectacular one-handed grab on 4th-and-18 — arguably the most remarkable catch of his career so far and one that instantly went viral.
The second is the Week 11 showdown against the Green Bay Packers in 2021, another game where Jefferson completely dominated. In that closely contested NFC North battle, he caught eight passes for 169 yards and two touchdowns, helping Minnesota secure a narrow win with a last-second field goal. It was one of those moments that not only boosted his personal stats but also sparked momentum for the Vikings that season.
But Jefferson’s picks weren’t limited to Vikings games. He also highlighted plays and moments from players he admires. Among them is the famous 2014 game between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys, which featured one of the most jaw-dropping plays in NFL history: Odell Beckham Jr.’s one-handed sideline catch. The moment, which saw Beckham stretch impossibly far back to snag the ball with just one hand while being interfered with, remains a staple highlight in NFL lore. For Jefferson, who also attended LSU like Beckham, this play carries added significance.
Another non-Vikings moment included in the broadcast is the New Orleans Saints’ Super Bowl XLIV victory over the Indianapolis Colts in 2010. This was a defining moment not just for the Saints franchise, but for football fans across Louisiana — Jefferson’s home state. He was likely a young fan watching that championship unfold, making the Saints’ triumph over Peyton Manning’s Colts a core memory. While the full game won’t air during primetime, a 30-minute NFL Films condensed special of the game will be shown at 4:30 PM CT, with the full broadcast replay scheduled for after midnight.
Jefferson’s takeover of NFL Network is more than just a collection of football replays — it’s a personal highlight reel. It reflects his path, his influences, and his appreciation for both the history and culture of the game. For fans of Jefferson and the Vikings, it’s a special chance to connect with the star wideout beyond his performances on Sundays. It also showcases his deep respect for the legends who came before him and those who helped shape his passion for football.
From electrifying rookie moments to legendary performances by Moss and Beckham, the programming choices form a curated playlist of inspiration, personal milestones, and football artistry. Jefferson’s selections reveal a player who honors the past while continuing to build a legacy of his own.
As Jefferson continues to establish himself as one of the premier receivers in the NFL, his day on the NFL Network offers a rare opportunity for fans to relive some of the sport’s greatest highlights through his eyes. Whether it’s watching the Griddy debut, a record-breaking catch in Buffalo, or Randy Moss dominating in Dallas, this programming slate is a celebration of football — and the rising legend of Justin Jefferson.
