INGLEWOOD, Calif. – Number 18 has learned he's headed back to the 99 Club.
Justin Jefferson was met outside the team bus Thursday afternoon by three-time All-Pro Chad Ochocinco Johnson, who told the Vikings receiver his Madden 25 rating has increased from the originally announced 98 to 99.
The "99 Club" refers to the group of players to receive the game's top ranking — 99 overall — for a given year.
Upon arriving at SoFi Stadium for the Vikings Thursday Night Football game against the Rams, Jefferson was surprised to see Johnson waiting for him in black shades and a black-and-white Madden jacket. He also was joined by content producer and influencer Eli Mack.
Jefferson, also wearing dark shades and a black leather jacket, offered an embrace to Johnson, who held a black-and-red jewelry box.
"I come bearing good news," Johnson told the Vikings receiver. "Welcome back to the 99 Club."
Jefferson responded with a wide grin, rubbing his palms together in excitement as Johnson opened the box to reveal a gold pendant necklace to commemorate the moment.
"This is fire," Jefferson said before lifting the necklace out for a closer look. "Appreciate y'all. That's what's up."
At 25 years old, Jefferson becomes the youngest ever two-time 99 Club member, having also received the 99 rating for Madden 24.
Jefferson also is the first Viking to earn a 99 rating more than once. The Vikings previous 99 Club Members were guard Randall McDaniel (Madden 99), defensive end Jared Allen (Madden 11) and running back Adrian Peterson (Madden 14).
Six current players across the league are part of Madden 25's 99 Club: Jefferson, Dolphins WR Tyreek Hill, 49ers RB Christian McCaffrey, Chiefs TE Travis Kelce, Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes and 49ers tackle Trent Williams.
Currently in his fifth pro season, Jefferson has 425 catches for 6,430 yards (15.1 average) and 35 receiving touchdowns, as well as one rushing touchdown. He is averaging 88.5 yards per game through six contests this season and has five TDs.
Jefferson made the Pro Bowl to end each of his first three seasons, shattering team and league all-time records along the way, and in 2022 he led the league with 128 catches and 1,809 yards.
Jefferson suffered a hamstring injury last season that landed him on Injured Reserve. Despite missing seven games, he finished the 2023 campaign with 68 receptions for 1,074 yards and five touchdowns.
