Attention Drawn to Justin Jefferson's Postgame Handshake with Sam Darnold

The Minnesota Vikings suffered one of their toughest games of the 2025 season in Week 13, dropping to a 4-8 record after a 26-0 defeat to Sam Darnold and the Seattle Seahawks. Justin Jefferson struggled throughout the matchup, finishing with only two receptions for four yards. Meanwhile, Darnold managed a steadier performance, completing 14 of 26 passes for 128 yards.

Jefferson has now played alongside three different quarterbacks this season. The Vikings began the year with JJ McCarthy as the starter, but an injury led to Carson Wentz stepping in. After missing five games, McCarthy returned but underperformed over the next four matchups. This prompted Minnesota to start undrafted rookie Max Brosmer against Seattle, who threw four interceptions.

Through the first 12 games of 2025, Jeffersons stats have dipped, totaling 60 catches for 795 yards and two touchdowns. This contrasts sharply with his 2024 season, when he posted 103 receptions for 1,533 yards and 10 touchdowns during Darnolds only year with the Vikings, as Minnesota finished with a 14-3 record.

Even though Darnold left the Vikings in the offseason to sign a three-year, $100.5 million contract with the Seahawks, Jefferson took a moment to connect with his former quarterback after Sundays game. The pair shared a warm hug and exchanged a few words before going their separate ways.

Former teammates Sam Darnold and Justin Jefferson share a moment postgame , the NFL posted on X.

Fans quickly noticed the interaction, sharing their reactions on social media. Comments ranged from playful jokes to expressions of nostalgia over the former teammates connection.

Looking ahead, Jefferson and the Vikings will face Dan Quinn and the Washington Commanders in Week 14. Darnold and the Seahawks, now 9-3 and leading the NFC West, will travel to take on the Atlanta Falcons.

Originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 1, 2025, this story first appeared in the NFL section.

Author: Sophia Brooks