Odell Beckham Jr. Jokingly Ties New Vikings Jersey Number to Justin Jefferson
The wide receiver playfully suggested his former LSU teammate owes his skills to him.
Odell Beckham Jr. has joined the Minnesota Vikings' practice squad and will wear the No. 9 jersey, a number previously held by quarterback J.J. McCarthy. Beckham, who was cut by the New York Giants on Sept. 29, humorously explained his number choice to reporters.
"The reason I picked 9 is Justin [Jefferson] got half his game from me," Beckham said, referring to the Vikings' star wide receiver. The two players share a connection through LSU, where Beckham played from 2011-2013 and was teammates with Jefferson's older brother, Jordan, who was his quarterback for one season.
Beckham expressed admiration for Jefferson's career accomplishments, stating, "It’s amazing what he’s done. It’ll be amazing to get to see him up close and personal. And also get to see what he’s going to do for the rest of his career, god willing. He’s got a chance to be the best to ever do it. It’s pretty special to be able to be here with him."
He added, "Just being able to see him since coming in those days at LSU, his big brother was my quarterback, so it’s a lot of history there. He’s been like family to me for a long time."
Beckham's addition provides depth for the Vikings, who are currently managing injuries. Jefferson missed the team's recent game against Miami with a sprained ankle, and Jordan Addison has been dealing with minor hamstring soreness.
