EAGAN, Minn. — Justin Jefferson mostly played on the outside as a wide receiver for LSU in 2017 and 2018.
But in the months before the 2019 season, Tigers passing game coordinator/wide receivers coach Joe Brady and Jefferson talked about the possibility of moving the 6-foot-1, 202-pound wide receiver to more of an inside role.
It's safe to say that move paid off, as Jefferson compiled one of the best receiving seasons in LSU history in 2019 as a junior. He tied for the national lead and set a school single-season record with 111 catches and finished second in the country overall with 18 touchdown receptions, which trailed only Tigers teammate Ja'Marr Chase's 20.
He was third in FBS with 1,540 receiving yards and helped the Tigers win the College Football Playoff National Championship.
View photos of LSU WR Justin Jefferson who was selected by the Vikings in the first round of the NFL Draft.
Auburn defensive back Noah Igbinoghene (4) breaks up a pass intended for LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) in the end zone during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, in Auburn, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs a drill during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs a drill during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs after the catch during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs after the catch during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs a route during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs a route during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson reacts during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs the 40 yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs the 40 yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson is tackled by Clemson safety K'Von Wallace during the second half of a NCAA College Football Playoff national championship game Monday, Jan. 13, 2020, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs the 40 yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs the 40 yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson is tackled by Clemson safety K'Von Wallace during the second half of a NCAA College Football Playoff national championship game Monday, Jan. 13, 2020, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) celebrates after scoring with wide receiver Justin Jefferson during the first half of a NCAA College Football Playoff national championship game against Clemson Monday, Jan. 13, 2020, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson poses for a headshot during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Monday, Feb. 24, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson runs over Clemson cornerback Derion Kendrick during the first half of a NCAA College Football Playoff national championship game Monday, Jan. 13, 2020, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) celebrates the touchdown by LSU tight end Thaddeus Moss (81) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game against Oklahoma, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson is tackled by Clemson safety K'Von Wallace during the second half of a NCAA College Football Playoff national championship game Monday, Jan. 13, 2020, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson is tackled by Clemson during the first half of a NCAA College Football Playoff national championship game Monday, Jan. 13, 2020, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson is tackled by Clemson linebacker James Skalski and safety Denzel Johnson during the second half of a NCAA College Football Playoff national championship game Monday, Jan. 13, 2020, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson poses during media day for NCAA College Football Playoff national championship game Saturday, Jan. 11, 2020, in New Orleans. Clemson is scheduled to play LSU on Monday. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip).
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) celebrates his touchdown against Oklahoma during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. LSU won 63-28. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) celebrates a touchdown catch against Oklahoma during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta.(AP Photo/John Bazemore)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) makes a touchdown catch against Oklahoma safety Justin Broiles (25) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson poses during media day for NCAA College Football Playoff national championship game Saturday, Jan. 11, 2020, in New Orleans. Clemson is scheduled to play LSU on Monday. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip).
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) runs against Georgia during the second half of the Southeastern Conference championship NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson poses during media day for NCAA College Football Playoff national championship game Saturday, Jan. 11, 2020, in New Orleans. Clemson is scheduled to play LSU on Monday. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip).
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson leaves the field after the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game against Oklahoma, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. LSU won 63-28. (AP Photo/John Amis)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) celebrates his touchdown against Oklahoma during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) prepares for a touchdown catch against Oklahoma safety Justin Broiles (25) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) runs against Oklahoma safety Justin Broiles (25) during the second half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) celebrates a touchdown catch against Oklahoma safety Justin Broiles (25) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) runs against Oklahoma cornerback Woodi Washington (5) during the second half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) makes a touchdown catch against Oklahoma safety Justin Broiles (25) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) makes a touchdown catch against Oklahoma safety Justin Broiles (25) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) celebrates his touchdown against Oklahoma during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) makes a touchdown catch against Oklahoma safety Justin Broiles (25) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) makes the catch against Oklahoma during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)
Toronto Raptors forward Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (4) gets a shot off as he's defended by Indiana Pacers forward Domantas Sabonis (11), left, and forward Justin Holiday (8) during an NBA basketball game, Monday, Dec. 23, 2019, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) prepares for a touchdown catch against Oklahoma safety Justin Broiles (25) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) stretches for a touchdpwn against Oklahoma safety Pat Fields (10) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) runs against Georgia during the second half of the Southeastern Conference championship NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) stretches for a touchdpwn against Oklahoma safety Pat Fields (10) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) makes a touchdown catch against Oklahoma safety Justin Broiles (25) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) prepares for a touchdown catch against Oklahoma safety Justin Broiles (25) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) stretches for a touchdpwn against Oklahoma safety Pat Fields (10) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) runs against Georgia during the first half of the Southeastern Conference championship NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
LSU Tigers wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) celebrates a touchdown against Arkansas with LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) stretches for a touchdpwn against Oklahoma safety Pat Fields (10) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA semifinal college football playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
Mississippi defensive back Jalen Julius (26) tackles LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Oxford, Miss., Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019. (AP Photo/Thomas Graning)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) celebrates a touchdown against Arkansas during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
LSU wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) celebrates his touchdown reception with offensive tackle Saahdiq Charles (77) and wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) in the first half of an NCAA college football game against Texas A&M in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
Georgia defensive back Divaad Wilson (1) tackles LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) during the second half of the Southeastern Conference championship NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)
LSU wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) celebrates his touchdown reception with offensive tackle Saahdiq Charles (77) and wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) in the first half of the team's NCAA college football game against Texas A&M in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
Mississippi defensive back Jalen Julius (26) tackles LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Oxford, Miss., Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019. LSU won 58-37. (AP Photo/Thomas Graning)
Arkansas recovers an onside kick against as the ball slips past LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) in an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) is shown in action in the first half of an NCAA football game against Alabama Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) is shown in action in the first half of an NCAA football game against Alabama Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) scores a touchdown against Arkansas during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
Auburn defensive back Javaris Davis (13) tackles LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson is shown in action in the first half of an NCAA football game against Alabama Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) runs towards the sidelines after a short pass reception against Mississippi State during the first half of their NCAA college football game in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019. LSU won 36-13. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) clinches the game for the Tigers, recovering Alabama's onside-kick attempt in the final minute of the second half of an NCAA football game Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. LSU won 46-41. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) pulls in a long pass reception over Florida defensive back Shawn Davis (31) in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) signals to the fans against Alabama in the first half of an NCAA football game Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) is tackled by Alabama defensive back Xavier McKinney (15) in the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) runs towards the sidelines after a short pass reception against Mississippi State during the first half of their NCAA college football game in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019. LSU won 36-13. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) cradles a pass as he is tackled by Mississippi State safety Jaquarius Landrews (11) during the first half of their NCAA college football game against Mississippi State in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019. LSU won 36-13. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) carries against Florida defensive back Kaiir Elam (5) during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019. LSU won 42-28. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) pulls in a pass against Utah State cornerback Cameron Haney in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) cradles a pass during the first half of their NCAA college football game against Mississippi State in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019. LSU won 36-13. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) cradles a pass as he is tackled by Mississippi State safety Jaquarius Landrews (11) during the first half of their NCAA college football game against Mississippi State in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019. LSU won 36-13. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson, left, fights off a tackle by Mississippi State cornerback Jarrian Jones on a short pass reception during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019. LSU won 36-13. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
LSU coach Ed Orgeron sings the alma mater with wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2); Orgeron's wife, Kelly; and other team members after LSU's win over Florida in an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019. LSU won 42-28. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) stares down Mississippi State safety Shawn Preston Jr. (12) as he scores on a 12-yard touchdown reception during the second half of their NCAA college football game in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019. LSU won 36-13. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
LSU wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) celebrates his touchdown reception with wide receiver Josh Hammond (10) and wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) in the second half of an NCAA college football game against Florida in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019. LSU won 42-28. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) tries to fight off a tackle by Mississippi State safety Brian Cole II (32) after a pass reception during the first half of their NCAA college football game in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) runs a route in the first half of an NCAA college football game against Utah State in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. LSU won 42-6. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) catches a pass over Florida defensive back Shawn Davis (31) in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) runs a route in the first half of an NCAA college football game against Utah State in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) reacts after catching a pass in the first half of an NCAA college football game against Utah State in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) pulls in a pass against Utah State cornerback Cameron Haney in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) celebrates his touchdown reception with running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire (22) as Utah State cornerback DJ Williams (7) walks to the sideline in the second half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. LSU won 42-6. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) pulls in a touchdown reception over Utah State cornerback DJ Williams (7) in the second half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. LSU won 42-6. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) runs a pass route in the first half of an NCAA college football game against Utah State in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. LSU won 42-6. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) pulls in a touchdown reception over Utah State cornerback DJ Williams (7) in the second half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. LSU won 42-6. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
Utah State cornerback DJ Williams (7) walks to the sideline as LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) and running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire (22) celebrate Jefferson's touchdown reception in the second half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. LSU won 42-6. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) pulls in a touchdown reception over Utah State cornerback DJ Williams (7) in the second half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. LSU won 42-6. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) pulls in a touchdown reception over Utah State cornerback DJ Williams (7) in the second half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. LSU won 42-6. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) pulls in a pass against Utah State cornerback Cameron Haney in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) works out during their NCAA college football practice in Baton Rouge, La., Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Terrace Marshall Jr. (6) celebrates a touchdown catch with teammate Justin Jefferson (2) in the first half of an NCAA college football game against Northwestern State, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Baton Rouge, La. (AP Photo/Patrick Dennis)
LSU wide receiver Derrick Dillon (19) celebrates his touchdown reception with wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) in the first half of an NCAA college football game against Utah State in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) pulls in a pass against Utah State cornerback Cameron Haney in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU quarterback Joe Burrow (9) celebrates after connecting with wide receiver Justin Jefferson for a touchdown against Texas during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) is tackled by Utah State safety Shaq Bond (4), linebacker Kevin Meitzenheimer (33) and linebacker David Woodward in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU quarterback Joe Burrow (9) celebrates after connecting with teammate wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) for a touchdown against Texas during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) pulls in a catch for a touchdown over Texas defensive back Josh Thompson (29) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) is stopped by Texas defensive back Brandon Jones (19) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) catches a pass and runs for a touchdown against Texas during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) catches a pass in front of Texas defensive back Caden Sterns (7) and runs for a touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson, center, and other LSU players warm up before an NCAA college football game against Texas, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
LSU Tigers wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) catches a 9-yard touchdown as Georgia Southern Eagles linebacker Jay Bowdry (5) defends in the first quarter during an NCAA football game between the Georgia Southern Eagles and Louisiana State University Tigers in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Democker)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) pulls in a catch for a touchdown over Texas defensive back Josh Thompson (29) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
LSU Tigers wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) during an NCAA football game between the Georgia Southern Eagles and Louisiana State University Tigers in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Democker)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) makes a reception in the third quarter as Georgia Southern safety Kenderick Duncan Jr. (27) defends during an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Democker)
LSU Tigers wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) bows to the crowd after he catches a 9-yard touchdown in the first quarter during an NCAA football game between the Georgia Southern Eagles and Louisiana State University Tigers in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Democker)
LSU Tigers wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) takes a pass up the sidelines in the first quarter during an NCAA football game between the Georgia Southern Eagles and Louisiana State University Tigers in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Democker)
Orlando Magic forward Amile Jefferson (11) goes up for a shot between Atlanta Hawks guard Justin Anderson (1) and forward John Collins (20) during the second half of an NBA basketball game Friday, April 5, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) catches a 9-yard touchdown as Georgia Southern linebacker Jay Bowdry (5) defends in the first quarter of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Democker)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) works out during their NCAA college football practice in Baton Rouge, La., Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) works out during their NCAA college football practice in Baton Rouge, La., Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) catches a 9-yard touchdown as Georgia Southern linebacker Jay Bowdry (5) defends in the first quarter of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Democker)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) works out during their NCAA college football practice in Baton Rouge, La., Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) works out during their NCAA college football practice in Baton Rouge, La., Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) works out during their NCAA college football practice in Baton Rouge, La., Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) works out during their NCAA college football practice in Baton Rouge, La., Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) works out during their NCAA college football practice in Baton Rouge, La., Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
UCF defensive back Nevelle Clarke (14) breaks up the pass intended for LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson in the first half during the Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Glendale, AZ. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) works out during their NCAA college football practice in Baton Rouge, La., Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) works out during their NCAA college football practice in Baton Rouge, La., Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) works out during their NCAA college football practice in Baton Rouge, La., Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) in the first half during the Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game against UCF, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Glendale, AZ. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) works out during their NCAA college football practice in Baton Rouge, La., Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) in the first half during the Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game against UCF, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Glendale, AZ. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) works out during their NCAA college football practice in Baton Rouge, La., Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson drops the ball in the endzone in front of UCF defensive back Richie Grant (27) in the second half of the Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Glendale, AZ. LSU won 40-32. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
UCF defensive back Nevelle Clarke (14) breaks up the pass intended for LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson in the first half during the Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) makes a touchdown catch against UCF defensive back Nevelle Clarke (14) during the first half of a Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) drops a long pass near the end zone as Rice cornerback Collin Whitaker pursues in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) in the first half during the Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game against UCF, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Glendale, AZ. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) fumbles a punt as UCF wide receiver Jacob Harris (87) moves in to recover the ball during the second half of the Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. LSU defeated UCF 40-32. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) catches a touchdown in front of UCF defensive back Nevelle Clarke in the first half during the Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) makes a touchdown catch against UCF defensive back Nevelle Clarke (14) during the first half of a Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
LSU receiver Justin Jefferson (2) makes a touchdown catch in front of Arkansas defender Kamren Curl during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Fayetteville, Ark. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) pulls in a first down reception against Alabama defensive back Deionte Thompson (14) and defensive back Patrick Surtain II (2) in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU receiver Justin Jefferson (2) makes a touchdown catch in front of Arkansas defender Kamren Curl during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Fayetteville, Ark. LSU won, 24-17. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
LSU receiver Justin Jefferson (2) makes a touchdown catch in front of Arkansas defender Kamren Curl during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Fayetteville, Ark. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
LSU receiver Justin Jefferson (2) makes a touchdown catch in front of Arkansas defender Kamren Curl during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Fayetteville, Ark. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
LSU receiver Justin Jefferson (2) celebrates with teammates Tory Carter (44) Foster Moreau (18) and Terrace Marshall Jr. (6) after scoring a touchdown against Arkansas during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Fayetteville, Ark. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) pulls in a first down reception against Alabama defensive back Deionte Thompson (14) and defensive back Patrick Surtain II (2) in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire (22) celebrates his touchdown with fullback Trey Gallman (47) and wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) in the second half of an NCAA college football game against Southeastern Louisiana in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018. LSU won 31-0. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire celebrates his touchdown with fullback Trey Gallman (47) and wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) in the second half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018. LSU won 31-0. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) celebrates his touchdown reception in the second half of an NCAA college football game against Mississippi in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018. LSU won 45-16. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) is tackled by Georgia defensive back J.R. Reed (20) and teammates during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) is caught by Miami defensive backs Michael Jackson (28) and Jhavonte Dean (6) after taking a pass for a first down during the first half of an NCAA college football game Sunday, Sept. 2, 2018, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Ron Jenkins)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) celebrates a gain in an NCAA college football game against Georgia in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) makes a reception against Georgia defensive back Richard LeCounte (2) during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) celebrates his touchdown reception in the second half of an NCAA college football game against Mississippi in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018. LSU won 45-16. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) reacts after scoring a touchdown against Louisiana Tech in the first half of an NCAA college football game against in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018. (AP Photo/Tyler Kaufman)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) catches a pass over Florida defensive back C.J. McWilliams, right, during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 6, 2018, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) warms up before an NCAA college football game against Mississippi in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) catches a pass and tries to get around Auburn defensive back Noah Igbinoghene (4) as he carries the ball during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, in Auburn, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
Now, after getting selected by Minnesota with the 22nd overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Jefferson feels at ease with his upcoming transition to the pros.
"Right when Joe Brady came, he definitely watched film from 2018 and saw that I was on the outside, and that I was a playmaker with the ball," Jefferson said of Brady, who was recently hired as the Panthers offensive coordinator. "Him coming up to me and giving me that job, he felt that it was a tough job and that not a lot of people could switch from outside to inside.
"He felt that the inside was going to be perfect for me and that I was going to fit perfectly with the offense," Jefferson added Friday during a video chat with the Twin Cities media. "Just transferring inside definitely helped me and helped me boost my draft grade."
Jefferson, who was ranked as the 14th-best player in the draft by NFL.com draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah, said he blossomed on the field both physically and mentally in 2019.
While he used his sturdy frame to haul in contested catches, Jefferson said he also picked up on how to recognize and read what the opponent had planned, too.
"It also helped me become a smarter player, having to learn the different defenses, and during routes … having to know what coverages the defenses were in," Jefferson said of his move to the slot. "Running those different routes in different coverages, I learned more about football and different intricacies they run, and how to run different routes off those coverages.
"It definitely helped me become a smarter and better player," Jefferson added.
Jefferson could be a factor in the same position with the Vikings, where he will team with former All-Pro wide receiver Adam Thielen and Pro Bowl quarterback Kirk Cousins to help lead Minnesota's passing attack.
Jefferson noted those Vikings veterans reached out to him shortly after he was drafted at No. 22. Jefferson added that he's excited to catch passes from Cousins, whom he touted for his accuracy and deep-passing ability.
"Kirk definitely reached out to me, and then Adam," Jefferson said. "Having those two guys [do that] is encouraging and kind of builds my confidence to come into the season with those two guys being very supportive."
"His accuracy, and him just really not being conservative, trusting his receivers to go get the ball," Jefferson added. "Watching Adam and Stefon [Diggs] go get those passes, being that big-time receiver for the Vikings definitely had my eyes big and watching those guys during film definitely had us going and excited and everything. Me playing for the Vikings now, and watching them during the season last year, it's kind of funny that I'm at this big stage right now. It's definitely a dream come true."
Jefferson's college career is officially in the rearview mirror, as he will now look forward to a new start with the Vikings.
In a normal year, he and classmates would be preparing to come to the Twin Cities for a minicamp next weekend, but that will instead be conducted virtually from remote locations because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In addition to the distance learning from his new team, Jefferson will surely use the lessons from his time at LSU to help him make that transition, especially with how he thrived from the slot in LSU's perfect season in 2019.
"Just pretty much being the only team to have that pro-style offense, pretty much a majority of the plays we ran at LSU, the NFL has those exact plays," Jefferson said. "Drawing the different plays up to coaches and everything, they're impressed because we have the same concepts, but different names for them.
"Coming into the league, knowing the things that I know and dealing with the offense that I dealt with definitely makes it a little bit easier," Jefferson added.
