Justin Jefferson, a familiar face in the NFL’s international showcase games, has become something of a globe-trotter for the Minnesota Vikings. After dazzling crowds in London last year, he is now preparing to headline in Dublin, where the Vikings will face the Pittsburgh Steelers in the league’s first-ever regular-season contest in Ireland.
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On paper, Minnesota holds the slight edge, with its offensive firepower and Jefferson’s unmatched ability to change a game. But the Steelers’ physical defense will make this a true test of the consistency the Vikings have been showing. And, of course, a challenge for Jefferson as well, who has gone six games without touching 100 receiving yards.
The wideout, a performer in every sense of the word, would be looking to break that lull as well as showcase his other skill: The signature touchdown celebrations — especially his signature Griddy dance. That move has made him a crowd favorite across stadiums. This week, he hinted that fans could expect something new.
“We’ve got a little addition to the Griddy, a little Ireland edition,” Jefferson said during his media appearance. “Hopefully, I’ll get to bust it out Sunday.”
One reporter even suggested a name for the new version: the “O’Griddy,” which Jefferson laughed off but didn’t rule out.
Apparently, at the heart of Jefferson’s approach is a mindset inspired by Michael Jordan. “I always remember when Michael Jordan said that, you know, there’s always a person that’s seeing you play for the first time every single game,” Jefferson reflected on the Vikings YouTube channel.
“I kind of try to keep that on my mind every single game that I try to perform and give, you know, everybody a show,” he added.
Jefferson knows fans — especially kids — might be seeing him for the first time, and he feels a responsibility to make those moments memorable. That challenge is especially true in Ireland, where many in the crowd may have never seen live American football before.
“Some people don’t even know anything about football and [are] still coming to the game and still wanting to watch what’s going on,” Jefferson said. “So, I’m always excited for that. Always excited to be in front of a new fanbase.”
If the wideout is looking to impress, then he would also have to register some yards. In the three games so far this season, Jefferson has had 12 receptions and 200 yards. He has shown glimpses of his precise route-running and ability to stretch defenses, but has only managed one TD so far.
Against Pittsburgh, fans can expect Jefferson to be heavily targeted, especially in the red zone. But if everything goes according to script, the Vikings, who are 2-1 for the season, may not only secure a win but also treat Dublin to a first-hand look at Jefferson’s evolving artistry, on the field and in dance.
