Minnesota Vikings star receiver Justin Jefferson was delayed in joining the team’s broadcasters during a preseason opener against the Houston Texans.
It was for good reason: checking on fellow receiver Rondale Moore.
Moore, 25, missed all last season with an ACL injury he suffered in Atlanta Falcons training camp.
Finally getting back up to speed, Moore suffered a devastating leg injury on a punt return in the second quarter of Saturday’s opener. Moore was carted off the field and was visibly frustrated with what could be a serious injury that will impact his time in Minnesota.
As the broadcasters pointed out Jefferson would join the broadcast momentarily to start the third quarter, the Vikings confirmed the reason on social media, leading to a fanfare of support for both Jefferson and Moore.
Later during the broadcast, Jefferson had this to say about Moore.
“I was right there when they carted him off, talked to a little bit in the locker room,” Jefferson said. “Moments like this is difficult. It sucks to see anyone come out here and get hurt, especially on their first opportunity of the season. That’s definitely going to be a tough loss for us, but we’re going to be praying for him, having his back the whole entire way for him to get back on his feet.”
Vikings Fans React to Justin Jefferson’s Actions After Rondale Moore Injury
GettyVikings wide receiver Rondale Moore suffered a leg injury on this play of the team’s preseason opener against the Texans.
As word spread of Jefferson’s gesture in support of Moore, many fans shared their thoughts on the 26-year-old receiver and team captain.
“Make him a Vikings For life,” one fan wrote.
“Wholesome as heck, a second fan replied.
While Moore has only spent the past few months in Minnesota, the connection Jefferson has with Moore was made evident.
“That’s a real friend right there,” a third fan said.
“Jet enjoys being a teammate,” a fourth fan wrote. “it’s evident that’s genuine.”
Vikings WR Room is Shorthanded After Moore Injury, Addison Suspension
The Vikings wide receiver room is looking thin to start the 2025 season.
With Jordan Addison‘s three-game suspension to start the schedule, the Vikings are leaning on their depth to replace Addison during that stretch.
Moore figured to play a role in that effort and offeread a dynamic skillset to the offense as well.
Now, it’s on Tai Felton or Lucky Jackson to fill in with Jalen Nailor poised to take the No. 2 spot opposite Jefferson for the first three weeks of the season. Felton offers more upside with his athleticism, while Jackson has arguably been the frontrunner with his consistency through training camp.
The Vikings could pursue another receiver to add to the room. Adam Thielen has surfaced as a potential option but would require the Carolina Panthers to be willing to trade him.
Another option could be Brandon Powell, who played the past two seasons for the Vikings and is familiar with Kevin O’Connell’s system.
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