The Minnesota Vikings have been weakened ever since going 13-4 last season and finishing first in the NFC North.
They lost wide receiver Adam Thielen and star running back Dalvin Cook this offseason, and many feel the balance of power in the division has shifted to the young and upstart Detroit Lions.
But Minnesota still has Justin Jefferson, who is arguably the best wide receiver in the NFL.
He has two years remaining on his contract, but the Vikings, per Dov Kleiman via Albert Breer, are looking to give him a huge contract extension before the regular season starts.
Report: #Vikings are making "an effort" to get All-Pro WR Justin Jefferson signed before Week 1 of the 2023 season, via @AlbertBreer
The Vikings will surely make Jefferson the highest paid WR in NFL history, and Jefferson said getting a "Life-altering" second contract – "A… pic.twitter.com/n0fG3jmcoV
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) August 28, 2023
Kleiman noted that this extension will likely make Jefferson the highest-paid wideout in league history.
It would be a well-earned payday for a man who put up nine total touchdowns from scrimmage and a league-high 1,809 receiving yards last season.
Some feel it is only a matter of time before Jefferson shatters the 2,000 receiving-yard barrier, especially now that Thielen and Cook are gone.
If the Vikings are to make the playoffs and be competitive there, Jefferson may need to do exactly that.
Their other two starting wideouts are projected to be Jordan Addison, who is a rookie, and K.J. Osborn, who has had a total of 1,305 yards and 12 touchdowns in two pro seasons.
Jefferson’s speed downfield and ability to make contested catches, especially from long distance, is truly a sight to behold.
Having just turned 24 years of age in June, he may be just starting to hit his stride as an NFL star and possible future Hall of Famer.
NEXT: Insider Says Vikings Player Wants To Change The Market For 1 Position
