Justin Jefferson made one of the single greatest catches in NFL history on Sunday, delivering the major yardage the Minnesota Vikings needed to keep their hopes of winning alive.
On a crucial make-it-or-break-it fourth-down play, Kirk Cousins launched a deep pass down the right side of the field to a tightly covered Justin Jefferson, who rose up in the air and snagged the football down with just one hand. The catch was one of the best you’ll ever see.
JUSTIN JEFFERSON CATCH OF THE CENTURY. pic.twitter.com/Cos6v0yPIC
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) November 13, 2022
The acrobatic reception propelled Minnesota to victory, as it ultimately turned out. The one-handed grab stretched the game into overtime, where the Vikings went on to win 33-30 over the Buffalo Bills, improving to 8-1 on the season.
After the game Jefferson was asked if he was the best receiver in the National Football League. “Of course,” he replied. “I feel like I stated that today.” (RELATED: Benched Baker Mayfield Headbutts His Teammates Without Helmet On. Al Michaels Roasts Him)
Though Jefferson’s one-handed snag was utterly ridiculous, it’s hard to believe that it was the single greatest catch of all time. When I think of the greatest catch ever, I instantly think of David Tyree’s helmet catch from 2008 during Super Bowl 42.
One play in the @SuperBowl can make you a legend forever 🙌 @Giants (Feb. 3, 2008) pic.twitter.com/pDqb9PeWi0
— NFL Legacy (@NFLLegacy) January 28, 2020
For Tyree to have the ball stick to his helmet as if he had bubble gum on his head has me amazed to this day, still.
Jefferson’s grab was sensational and was likely the play of the year in the NFL, but to be label it as the greatest catch of all time seems a bit premature. To me, David Tyree still holds the title for best catch ever.