The Minnesota Vikings’ offseason program commenced with phase one, featuring meetings and strength/conditioning sessions. However, Justin Jefferson was notably absent from the voluntary workouts, as confirmed by head coach Kevin O’Connell.
The wide receiver’s absence isn’t surprising at all. He also skipped last year’s voluntary program, opting to join the team for the mandatory minicamp in June. With a significant contract extension in discussion, speculation arises about a potential holdout.
Coach O’Connell expressed hope for Jefferson’s eventual participation while mentioning his impact on team dynamics and work ethic.
“My hope is we can get him around the team. He’s obviously such a special player, but it goes beyond that, especially this time of year, because of just the energy and the flat out way he comes, and when he’s in this building and he goes to work and how his teammates respond to him,” O’Connell said via PurplePTSD.
Justin Jefferson’s contract situation mirrors that of other NFL star wide receivers awaiting contract extensions. CeeDee Lamb of the Dallas Cowboys and Ja’Marr Chase of the Cincinnati Bengals are also awaiting extensions. This offseason period is a time for them to pressurize their respective teams to either ink them with new deals or pave the way for their next destinations.
What is Justin Jefferson’s contract situation with Vikings?
There have been swirling rumors sparked about Justin Jefferson’s potential trade, especially following Kirk Cousins deal with the Atlanta Falcons. However, the Vikings made it clear that they would not trade the wide receiver.
Nevertheless, the pressure is mounting for the Vikings to secure the young star’s future with the team. He is entering the fifth and final year of his rookie contract and is set to pocket an impressive $19.7 million in 2024 as part of his fifth-year option.
The Vikings undoubtedly desire to retain the receiver’s services, but the question is whether he’ll explore the open market or opt for a long-term deal with the Vikings. He has hinted at his desires, expressing his hope that the Vikings will “break the bank” with a lucrative new contract.
So, when Jefferson does put pen to paper on his next deal, it’s poised to rewrite the NFL’s record books. Expected to surpass the current highest-paid non-quarterback, Nick Bosa, Jefferson’s contract negotiations are poised to make history. ESPN’s Dan Graziano earlier speculated that Jefferson’s new deal could exceed an eye-popping $30 million per year. Now, it remains to be seen what exactly happens with him.
