Justin Jefferson Joins Madden's Elite 99 Club for Third Consecutive Year

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson has secured his place in the elite 99 Club of the Madden video game series for the third consecutive year, as announced by EA Sports on Monday.

This prestigious recognition is reserved for players who achieve the game's highest rating, and Jefferson has consistently earned a perfect score of 99 in the previous two editions as well. At just 26 years old, he has established himself as one of the premier pass catchers in the league since his rookie season.

Over five seasons in the NFL, Jefferson has amassed impressive statistics: 495 receptions, 7,432 receiving yards, and 40 touchdowns. Notably, he holds the record for the highest average receiving yards per game in NFL history at 96.5 among qualifying players.

As the Vikings commenced training camp last week, Jefferson's participation was briefly interrupted when he exited practice early. The team later reported that he would be sidelined temporarily due to a "mild hamstring strain," which Jefferson described as a precautionary measure.

"Just making sure that I'm fully healthy and I'm good to go, especially when the season starts," he stated regarding his condition.

In the history of the franchise, only three other players have achieved a 99 overall rating: guard Randall McDaniel in "Madden 99," pass rusher Jared Allen in "Madden 11," and running back Adrian Peterson in "Madden 14."

The latest installment, "Madden NFL 26," is set to release on August 14. Alongside Jefferson, several other players have also been inducted into this year's 99 Club.