Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson has done some unheralded things throughout the first three seasons of his career. He has set numerous records and has cemented his status as arguably the best wide receiver and one of the best players overall in the NFL.
In the coming days, there is a chance that he will do something else that is unprecedented. According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, Justin Jefferson and the Vikings could agree on a very lucrative long-term extension.
“Two weeks ago, when I was in Minnesota, I asked Justin Jefferson about the status of his deal. He had no updates for me, saying he, ‘doesn’t like to discuss his business.’ Fair. However, he did say it with a huge smile, probably because he knows this team has been motivated to get it done.
“Jefferson has practiced all of training camp, trusting the team will give him a contract that could make him the highest-paid non-QB player in the league. (I’m sure Bosa and Jones also hope to take the title.) Good news for Kirk Cousins, I learned there are no concerns that if a deal isn’t reached Jefferson would miss games. Based on my conversations, this is looking to be a contract that will be announced (and celebrated) very soon.”
Justin Jefferson has certainly earned the extension that is coming his way. He has been truly dominant in his first three seasons in the NFL, earning a Pro Bowl nod each season and a spot on the All-Pro First or Second Team. Last season, he took home the Offensive Player of the Year Award after leading the league with 128 receptions and 1,809 yards with eight touchdowns.
While his standing as the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL may not last for long, as Nick Bosa of the San Francisco 49ers and Chris Jones of the Kansas City Chiefs are both angling for that title, Justin Jefferson will assuredly reset the wide receiver market.
Davante Adams of the Las Vegas Raiders has the biggest contract at $140 million. Tyreek Hill of the Miami Dolphins has the highest AAV at $30 million. Both of those numbers are likely in jeopardy as Justin Jefferson, who is only 24 years old, is going to receive a massive offer.
The Vikings will have him under contract for at least two more seasons, including 2024. But, the sooner they get a deal done, the better. Setting the market for non-quarterbacks instead of reacting to it will save Minnesota some money in the long run and avoid any distractions heading into the season.
