Minnesota Vikings star Justin Jefferson dazzled with an incredibly long touchdown catch – but it was someone running alongside him that attracted attention from fans.
Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold connected with Jefferson mid-way through the second quarter on a 98-yard touchdown pass to take a 10-0 lead over the San Francisco 49ers.
Jefferson is known for his great hands and his quickness, so his speed in burning the Niners’ secondary is not surprising.
But one of the officials was able to keep up with Jefferson as he ran down the field at blistering speed.
The official – identified by number as back judge Tyree Walton – even anticipated Jefferson changing direction on his run, adjusting himself to stay out of the way, but not losing speed.
Justin Jefferson’s 97-yard touchdown catch was one of the highlights of Sunday’s NFL slate
But it was the speed of official Tyree Walton (L) on that catch that took fans by surprise
idk how I didn’t notice this but bro look at the ref running 4.2 40 speed 😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/ISeSLvEtrq
— Kaleb (@PrimeERod) September 15, 2024
Walton even beat Jefferson to the end zone – with the Vikings receiver eventually waltzing in and dancing to celebrate the score.
Fans admired Walton’s legs – praising him across social media, with some wondering why he isn’t in the league himself.
Former NBA player Rex Chapman admired the speed on Walton, simply tweeting, ‘Wheels’.
‘Yo actually get this dude a contract LMFAO,’ wrote another user on the platform.
‘Why are the refs faster than the secondary??? [laughing emojis],’ another post said.
‘Bro got fluid hips too, look at that,’ read another post. ‘Change of direction, back[pedal], flip of the hips and catches the crew for the TD call.’
Sportswriter Rodger Sherman wrote, ‘Rewatched this play and what a spectacular highlight for the ref: – realizes Jefferson is coming his way, stops – goes 0-60, outsprints 49er defenders to stay out of their way – backpedals, stops on the goal line to make a potential call on a goal line tackle.’
Sherman also pointed out that Walton is a former running back at Division II school Adams State, who is in his second year as an NFL official.
Jefferson ended up leaving the game early with a contusion in his leg, but it’s not serious
As for Jefferson, he ended up leaving the game early due to an injury – later reported to be a leg contusion.
“I’m not seriously injured,” Jefferson said. “So that’s the main important thing. So it’s just all about getting to the training room, making sure my body is right for next week, and I’ll be ready to go next Sunday.”
He finished the day with four catches for 133 yards – including that touchdown, which constituted his career-best.
