In a significant move, the Minnesota Vikings have announced a contract extension for star wide receiver Justin Jefferson, solidifying his position as a cornerstone player for the team.
The new deal, worth a staggering $140 million over four years, with a remarkable $110 million guaranteed, positions Jefferson as the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, as reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.
In response to the extension, Jefferson expressed gratitude towards the Vikings organization and his support network, underscoring the importance of their backing in his career.
Jefferson’s on-field performance speaks volumes, having achieved four consecutive seasons with over 1,000 receiving yards, including a league-leading 1,809 yards in the 2022 season. Despite playing only 10 games last season, Jefferson managed an impressive 68 receptions for 1,074 yards and five touchdowns.
Since his selection as the 22nd overall pick in the 2020 draft, Jefferson has consistently showcased his prowess as one of the league’s premier playmakers. His accomplishments include three Pro Bowl selections, two second-team All-Pro nods, and a first-team All-Pro recognition, along with being named Offensive Player of the Year in 2022.
Moreover, Jefferson has etched his name in NFL history by setting various records, such as becoming the fastest player to reach 5,000 career receiving yards and holding the record for most yards through a player’s second, third, and fourth seasons. Additionally, he is the youngest player to lead the league in receiving yards.
Despite interest from multiple teams in acquiring Jefferson during the offseason, the Vikings made it clear that he was not available for trade, according to sources cited by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
With an impressive career stat line of 392 receptions, 5,899 yards, and 30 touchdowns in just 60 games, Jefferson’s yardage mark stands as the best in NFL history before a player’s 25th birthday. He joins the ranks of Hall of Famer Randy Moss and Dallas Cowboys’ CeeDee Lamb as one of the few to surpass 5,000 receiving yards by that age.
