Vikings Star Justin Jefferson Raises $45,000 for Cancer Research, Surprises Young Fan

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson's charity bowling event, called 'Strike Out Cancer', brought together cancer patients, survivors, caregivers and several of his teammates while raising more than $45,000 for the American Cancer Society.

The event, hosted by Jefferson's JJets Foundation, featured bowling, games and a silent auction with sports memorabilia including signed helmets, game-worn cleats and a Randy Moss jersey. Jefferson was joined by his brother Jordan and Vikings teammates Aaron Jones Sr., Andrew DePaola and Johnny Hekker.

Among the 25 guests was seven-year-old Claire Van Epps, a Vikings fan who was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma in 2023 and relapsed in late 2025 after a period of remission. She is currently undergoing oral chemotherapy. During the event, Jefferson spent time talking with her and later surprised her with tickets to Super Bowl LXI, scheduled for February 2027.

The NFLPA recognized Jefferson as its Week 5 Community MVP for the initiative and announced a $10,000 donation to his foundation. According to the American Cancer Society, funds raised through the event will go toward research, improved treatments and efforts to make cancer care more affordable.

Jefferson, who has served as an American Cancer Society ambassador, has also supported other young cancer patients. In September 2026, he gifted personalized shoes to two children treated at Children's Minnesota, incorporating details tied to their individual experiences with the disease.

Since joining the Vikings in 2020, Jefferson's foundation has reached more than 1,500 children through various community programs, including youth camps and school donations, with the cancer fundraiser marking a new addition to that outreach.