Vikings Coach O'Connell Hilariously Caught on Mic with Justin Jefferson

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell had a humorous exchange with superstar wide receiver Justin Jefferson during a preseason game.

The atmosphere of NFL preseason games tends to be more relaxed than what star players and coaches typically experience during the regular season. This allows for some lighter moments, such as the hilarious exchange between Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell and wide receiver Justin Jefferson.

During the Vikings' preseason opener against the Las Vegas Raiders, O'Connell noticed Jefferson wearing a microphone and couldn't resist teasing him. "The real question is, why — I see Justin, he never stands by himself," O'Connell said. "He's the energy, the igniter. Why in the world is he standing off by himself talking to himself? Now I know."

Vikings Coach O'Connell Hilariously Caught on Mic with Justin Jefferson

O'Connell's comments prompted Jefferson to request speaking to the viewers, which he did for the entirety of the third quarter. Jefferson's appearance served as a reminder that the Vikings were participating in an exhibition game and not a regular season contest.

At one point, Jefferson even successfully predicted that a play would result in a touchdown. "Got em, got em, got em, got em," Jefferson said as rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy threw a pass to Trent Sherfield Sr.

Vikings Coach O'Connell Hilariously Caught on Mic with Justin Jefferson

Jefferson's contract extension in June made him one of the highest-paid receivers in the NFL. Despite the financial success, Jefferson embraced the lighthearted moment with his coach.

McCarthy rebounded from an early interception with two touchdown passes against backups. Rookie Will Reichard kicked a 37-yard field goal as time expired to break Minnesota's 10-game preseason losing streak.

Vikings Coach O'Connell Hilariously Caught on Mic with Justin Jefferson

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

* Jefferson did not play in Saturday's preseason game.

* O'Connell's comments were made in response to Jefferson's request to say a few words to the viewers.

* Vikings' rookie Will Reichard ended the team's 10-game preseason losing streak with a field goal as time expired.

* McCarthy's performance gives hope for the future of the Vikings' quarterback position.

* The preseason atmosphere allows for more lighthearted moments, such as the exchange between O'Connell and Jefferson.