The Minnesota Vikings undressed the Chicago Bears in a nationally televised "Monday Night Football" showdown on Dec. 16.
After the Vikings' 30-12 blowout win, a postgame interaction between wide receiver Justin Jefferson and Bears quarterback Caleb Williams stole the spotlight.
Jefferson could have flaunted and taunted Williams with his team's success this year, which includes two victories over Chicago and a 12-2 record through Week 15. But instead, the fourth-year wideout built up the rookie signal caller who could be a primary competitor of his for the next decade in the NFC North.
"I got love for you, dawg," Jefferson said, pulling Williams in close. "You a killa, boy."
The two then appeared to agree to a jersey swap following just their second ever NFL matchup.
It was much more Jefferson's night than it was Williams', as the receiver added 7 catches, 73 yards and a touchdown to his already impressive 2024 stat line. Williams, meanwhile, looked exasperated at times as he went 18-of-31 for 191 yards and 1 touchdown. Vikings defenders also sacked him twice for a combined loss of 25 yards.
ESPN color commentator Troy Aikman went as far as to say during the broadcast that Williams appears to have lost his confidence, which isn't impossible to fathom considering he has already had two head coaches and two offensive coordinators less than one year into his professional career.
Williams has been harassed by opposing defenses all season due to poor offensive line play and his tendency to hold onto the football too long.
Considering how difficult the QB's campaign has been, particularly in comparison to several of his rookie counterparts, the love and encouragement from Jefferson may mean more to Williams than anyone on the outside could possibly know.
