Vikings’ Justin Jefferson Hits Ref in the Back With Helmet During Loss to Packers

The Packers got the better of Justin Jefferson on Sunday, and Jefferson’s own emotions got the better of him as well.

With six minutes left in the 2nd quarter, Vikings QB Kirk Cousins tossed his second pick of the game to Green Bay’s Adrian Amos. Jefferson tore Amos’ helmet off as Amos was being corraled. He then swung the helmet. The facemask caught the official in the shoulder, and Jefferson’s forearm hit him in the back.

Justin Jefferson is frustrated Ὀ pic.twitter.com/S4Akppj5oT

— PFF (@PFF) January 1, 2023

The referee didn’t appear to be in any danger. It could have been worse. If Jefferson had hit the official with a helmet crown just a little above his shoulder, it could have been a completely different discussion.

It didn’t happen, thankfully.

Jefferson was right to feel frustrated even though his way of expressing it wasn’t right. After receiving 284 yards through nine catches, Jefferson managed only 15 yards on his first reception.

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