The Justin Jefferson contract saga has come to a close. The Vikings have a deal in place for the 2022 Offensive Player of the Year, meeting his goal of becoming the highest earner among non-quarterbacks in the league. 
Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network report that Jefferson has reached an agreement on a four-year, $140MM extension. The deal includes $110MM guaranteed and once again sets the bar at the top of the receiver market. The 24-year-old is now under contract through 2028, with Minnesota announcing the move.
Last offseason, the team and player came close to an agreement, but talks were halted during the 2023 season. Despite missing seven games due to a hamstring injury, Jefferson’s bargaining power remained strong. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that he turned down an offer of over $28MM per year last summer. Now, Jefferson has secured a deal worth $35MM annually.
Like other players seeking new deals, Jefferson stayed away from voluntary OTAs. Despite the pause during the draft, negotiations continued, reflecting the team’s commitment to keeping him long-term. Schefter adds that multiple teams inquired about trading for Jefferson this offseason, all of which were rejected.
Jefferson’s impressive production early in his career, with 5,899 yards and 30 touchdowns in 60 games, allowed him to surpass Nick Bosa’s 49ers extension in 2023 and become the highest earner for non-quarterbacks at $35MM per year.
In 2024, Jefferson signed a historic deal in a notable offseason for wide receivers, setting a new benchmark for value. His agreement will likely impact the negotiations for other top receivers like Amon-Ra St. Brown, A.J. Brown, CeeDee Lamb, and Ja’Marr Chase.
With Kirk Cousins leaving in free agency, Sam Darnold signed as a short-term replacement, and J.J. McCarthy drafted as the future QB of the Vikings. Jefferson’s presence will be crucial in helping McCarthy adjust to the NFL.
The Vikings also have Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson in their skill-position corps, further strengthening the passing game regardless of the quarterback situation. Jefferson will continue to be a key player in the team’s offense for the foreseeable future.
His ability to maintain elite production with new quarterbacks and the impact of his deal on other wide receivers eligible for extensions will be closely monitored.
