Justin Jefferson was hit by the injury bug this season, which limited him to 1,074 yards and five touchdowns, but one could still make an argument that he’s the best wide receiver in the NFL.
He is undoubtedly the biggest fixture for the Minnesota Vikings, but his free agency is impending, and the franchise needs to get him to agree to a contract extension in order to secure its future.
Per Kevin Seifert, Jefferson said he wants “to be a part of an organization that wants” him while also wanting “to break the bank.”
Also from Justin Jefferson today: “I want to break the bank and I want to be a part of an organization that wants me, and to really give me what I deserve.” https://t.co/rujZgs1Fox
— Kevin Seifert (@SeifertESPN) February 7, 2024
Jefferson’s first four seasons in Minnesota have been disappointing in terms of team success, as they have made the playoffs only once, but now, he may have some help alongside him heading into next season.
Fellow wideout Jordan Addison had a stellar rookie year with 911 yards and 10 touchdowns, while tight end T.J. Hockenson, acquired in a trade with the Detroit Lions last season, had a career-high 960 yards.
On defense, linebacker Danielle Hunter made the Pro Bowl and posted 16.5 sacks this year, but he himself will be a free agent this offseason, and he may have to be a casualty in order to keep Jefferson.
If the Vikings, however, don’t meet Jefferson’s contract demands, he could become the most sought-after free agent next March, and he could help change the landscape of the NFL depending on where he ends up.
What makes this situation even more complicated is the fact that the Vikings also need a legitimate quarterback — 35-year-old Kirk Cousins, who suffered a torn Achilles this season, will be a free agent, and signing him to a new contract may not make sense given that they’re relatively young other than him.
NEXT: Vikings Share New T.J. Hockenson Injury Update