**An Open Letter to Justin Jefferson, and the Entire Minnesota Vikings Family**
To my brother, Justin, and to the greatest fans in the world – the Purple and Gold faithful,
As I sit down to write this, so many emotions are swirling. It feels surreal, in a way, to be putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard, I suppose) in this capacity. For so long, my connection to this team, this state, this community, has been through the pads, the helmet, the roar of the crowd, the shared moments on the field. Now, as I reflect on the journey, I felt it was important to share some thoughts directly with the people who have meant so much to me.
First, to Justin. My man, J.J. Where do I even begin? From the moment you walked into that locker room, there was something different. Not just the incredible talent – that was obvious from day one, and the world quickly saw it too. But it was your energy, your infectious personality, your relentless drive to be the best. You didn’t just arrive; you exploded onto the scene, and you elevated everyone around you, myself included.
Sharing that receiver room with you was an absolute privilege. We pushed each other every single day, on the practice field, in the film room, even just messing around in the locker room. We talked routes, we talked coverages, we talked life. You taught me new things, and I hope I was able to share some of the wisdom I’d gathered over the years. We built a chemistry on and off the field that I’ll cherish forever.
Watching you become the player you are today has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. You’re not just a superstar; you’re a leader, a role model, and a true professional. You carry yourself with a humility that is rare for someone with your level of success. The records you’ve broken, the plays you’ve made – they’re awe-inspiring. But what I’m most proud of is the man you are. Keep being you, J.J. Keep setting the standard. The future is incredibly bright, and I can’t wait to watch you continue to dominate and inspire.
Now, to the Minnesota Vikings fans. Wow. Where do I even start with you all? You are the heartbeat of this franchise. You are the reason we play the game with the passion and intensity that we do. From the moment I first put on that purple jersey, as a kid from Minnesota who grew up dreaming of this, the support has been unwavering.
I remember those early days, grinding on the practice squad, just trying to prove I belonged. You believed in me. You cheered for the local kid, the underdog, and that meant the world. Every single snap I took at U.S. Bank Stadium, I felt your energy. That roar after a big play, the collective gasp after a tough one, the unwavering support through the highs and the lows – it fueled me in ways I can’t adequately describe.
You are more than just fans; you are a community. You are the people who show up rain or shine, snow or ice, filling that stadium with a sea of purple. You are the people who decorate your houses, wear your jerseys with pride, and talk Vikings football year-round. You are the families who pass down the love for this team from generation to generation.
Being a Minnesota Viking was more than just a job; it was an identity. It was about representing this state, this community, this history. The opportunity to wear that M on my helmet, to run out of that tunnel to the sound of “Skol,” is something I will forever be grateful for.
While my journey on the field with the Vikings has come to an end, my connection to this team and this fanbase will never fade. I’ll be watching, I’ll be cheering, and I’ll always be a part of the Vikings family. Thank you for everything. Thank you for the memories, the support, the love. You made my dream a reality, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
Skol Vikings!
Sincerely,
Adam Thielen
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