The Minnesota Vikings are yet to finalize a long-term contract with their star wide receiver, Justin Jefferson, who is approaching the final year of his current deal. However, optimism is in the air for Vikings fans as a significant update hints at a breakthrough.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter Expects a Record-Breaking Deal
During a recent appearance on SportsCenter, ESPN’s Adam Schefter provided a promising update on the ongoing negotiations. Schefter emphasized that an agreement was on the horizon and predicted that it would be monumental.
“When this deal gets done, and I think it will eventually get done, it is expected to make Justin Jefferson the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history,” Schefter stated, courtesy of Scott Polacek from Bleacher Report.
Justin Jefferson’s Deal Expected to Eclipse A.J. Brown’s
This development isn’t entirely unexpected. The consensus has been that Jefferson would become the most expensive non-quarterback player, with an anticipated annual salary of around $35 million. For context, the current highest-paid wide receiver, Philadelphia Eagles’ A.J. Brown, earns $32 million per year.
Schefter further noted, “It will be a landmark type of a deal, and I think some of the other wide receivers are waiting to see where the Justin Jefferson deal comes in before they do a deal because they know the size and scope of this deal that the two sides have been working on throughout the course of the offseason.”
Justin Jefferson’s Expected Deal Tops Nick Bosa
At present, San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa holds the title of the highest-paid non-quarterback, following a five-year, $170 million extension signed before the previous season. Jefferson’s upcoming deal is expected to surpass even this significant contract.
Justin Jefferson’s Stellar Career with the Minnesota Vikings
Selected 22nd overall in the 2020 NFL Draft from LSU, Jefferson quickly proved his worth. He has made the Pro Bowl each season since entering the league, with his standout performance in 2022 when he led the NFL in both receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,809), alongside eight touchdowns.
His achievements earned him a First-Team All-Pro selection. Despite a hamstring injury limiting him to just 10 games in 2023, Jefferson still managed impressive stats, securing 68 catches for 1,074 yards and five touchdowns.
Future Prospects for Justin Jefferson and the Minnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings have consistently expressed their commitment to retaining Jefferson for the long haul, and the wide receiver has shown no desire to leave Minnesota. While there were some speculative trade rumors earlier this offseason, they appeared to be more fan-driven than based on substantial evidence.
As the NFL community eagerly awaits, the focus now is on whether the Minnesota Vikings can finalize this landmark deal with Justin Jefferson in the coming weeks or months. This contract could set new financial benchmarks in the league and solidify Jefferson’s status as one of the premier talents in the NFL.
