Justin Jefferson and the Minnesota Vikings’ season came to an earlier than expected (for Vikings fans) end this season. As Minnesota’s off-season begins, they’ll have a lot of questions to answer when it comes to their roster. The biggest one, however, will be if they want to lock down one of the best wide receivers in the game for the long term. Justin Jefferson’s recent comment suggests he is interested in money more than location.
Justin Jefferson’s Comment Suggests He May Not Stay With The Vikings
Justin Jefferson is a 2020 first-round draft pick. He is now able to sign a long-term deal before his fourth season. He indicated that he’s ready to talk about an extension if the Vikings are willing to do the same, however, if they are not, he will go where the money takes him. Per Kevin Seifert of ESPN,
Justin Jefferson is eligible for a contract extension. Asked if he wants to be in Minnesota long term, he said: “I mean, I will be wherever I’m wanted.* If they want me here, I’m here. That’s not something that I can really control.” Jefferson has been super low-key when discussing contract stuff since training camp, when he said “I’m not too fond of money.” He knows he’s a superstar, and that somebody is going to pay him if the Vikings decide not to. He doesn’t need to sell himself in public.
This comment doesn’t scream “I don’t want to be in Minnesota anymore.” If Minnesota offers him top dollar, which he has earned, there is little doubt he will sign a contract extension with them. However, he won’t be giving the Vikings a “hometown discount” to stay. If they don’t pony up and pay Jefferson, he will have no problem walking away at the end of his rookie contract.
Currently, Justin Jefferson is under contract through 2023 for $2.399 million. The Vikings will more than likely pick up his fifth-year option for 2024 this spring for an amount expected to be between $19 million and $20 million. He will be in Minnesota for two more years minimum (barring an shocking trade), however the 2025 season could be the first year he doesn’t put on a Vikings uniform if the two can’t come to an agreement.
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