Breaking: Minnesota Vikings WR Justin Jefferson sends Strong Words to Packers CB Jaire Alexander Ahead of Week 4
The Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers are set for a highly anticipated Week Four clash in the 2024 NFL season. A major storyline heading into this division rivalry is the return of running back Aaron Jones to Lambeau Field, this time as a Viking. Jones, who ranks third on the Packers’ all-time rushing list, joined Minnesota in free agency after being released by Green Bay.
The Packers signed Josh Jacobs to a four-year, $48 million contract and asked Jones to take a pay cut. However, after already accepting a significant pay reduction in 2023, Jones was unwilling to do so again. He signed a one-year deal with the Vikings worth $7 million, slightly more than what Green Bay had offered.
Beyond Jones’ return, another highly anticipated matchup is between Vikings All-Pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson and Packers star cornerback Jaire Alexander, promising an exciting battle on the field this week.
Minnesota Vikings WR Justin Jefferson and Green Bay Packers CB Jaire Alexander Have a History (Kind of)
Justin Jefferson, now the highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL after signing a four-year, $140 million extension, is set to face Jaire Alexander, who until recently held the title of the league’s highest-paid cornerback. The matchup between these two elite players is highly anticipated, as it’s not often fans get to see them go head-to-head.
Since Jefferson entered the league in 2020, the Vikings and Packers have faced off eight times in the regular season. However, Jefferson and Alexander have both been healthy for only four of those matchups. Last year, Jefferson missed the first meeting due to injury, while Alexander was suspended by the Packers for the second game.
Jaire Alexander just did the griddy in Justin Jefferson's face. pic.twitter.com/kjJ3ygl7gp
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) January 1, 2023
The last time they squared off was in Week 17 of the 2022 season, where Jefferson managed just one catch for 15 yards, though Alexander wasn’t always covering him. In that game, Alexander delivered one of the most memorable moments when he broke up a pass intended for Jefferson on the sideline and followed it up with a disrespectful celebration, adding more intensity to their rivalry. This upcoming matchup is sure to reignite that competitive fire.
In fact, across the four games where Justin Jefferson and Jaire Alexander have both been on the field, Jefferson has managed only one catch for 12 yards when directly covered by Alexander. That lone reception came during their first matchup in 2020. Alexander’s ability to limit Jefferson’s production has added even more intrigue to their rivalry, making their upcoming showdown one of the most highly anticipated individual matchups of the season.
Minnesota Vikings Wide Receiver Justin Jefferson Has Strong Words for Green Bay Packers Cornerback Jaire Alexander
Following practice today, Justin Jefferson spoke to the media about his upcoming matchup with Jaire Alexander. Despite past struggles against the Packers’ cornerback, Jefferson remained unfazed and suggested that Alexander makes a bigger deal of their rivalry than he does:
“Always just [trying] to nitpick at every little thing and play the head game. He’ll hit you a little extra or push you more than most players do, but I understand it’s a tactic to get inside my head and mess up my game plan. It doesn’t really work.”
Jefferson acknowledged Alexander’s physical style of play but feels prepared for it:
“I know he gets some help over the top at times, and he likes to do the jump jam to disrupt routes, but we have a plan for that. Honestly, I can’t wait for the matchup.”
He added with confidence:
“He likes to do those things to get inside someone’s head, but I’m not worried. I’m just looking forward to doing my Griddy in his end zone. I’m excited for the matchup.”
Sunday’s game promises to be a fierce battle, with Minnesota sitting at 3-0 and leading the NFC North, while the Packers are close behind at 2-1. It’s still unclear whether Packers quarterback Jordan Love will play, as head coach Matt LaFleur said they would wait until 90 minutes before kickoff to decide.
Regardless of Love’s status, the Jefferson-Alexander showdown is sure to be must-see action for fans.