The Minnesota Vikings are eager to secure star wide receiver Justin Jefferson with a lucrative long-term contract, indicating they’re willing to meet his financial demands to ensure it happens. However, there’s a condition attached.
According to reports from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero, and Mike Garafolo, Jefferson has informed the Vikings that he won’t commit to a new deal until he’s aware of the team’s plans regarding their quarterback situation.
When Jefferson eventually signs his new contract, it’s anticipated to surpass Tyreek Hill’s record-setting deal of $120 million over four years ($30 million annually), making it the largest contract for a receiver in NFL history.
Jefferson has been vocal about his desire for the Vikings to retain Kirk Cousins, who played the 2023 season under a one-year, $35 million contract and is set to become a free agent in March. Spotrac estimates Cousins’ market value at $39.3 million per season and projects a potential three-year, $118 million deal in free agency.
Throughout Jefferson’s four seasons in the league, Cousins has been the only quarterback he’s played with, resulting in impressive statistics including 392 receptions, 5,899 yards, and 30 touchdowns. Jefferson ranks second in receiving yards, sixth in receptions, and 11th in touchdowns during this time frame.
While Cousins may attract significant interest in the free-agent market, he expressed his preference to remain with the Vikings last month, prioritizing organizational structure over financial gain at this stage of his career.
Despite Cousins’ desire to return, the Vikings have alternative options, such as acquiring Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields via trade, selecting a quarterback in the draft such as Washington’s Michael Penix Jr., Oregon’s Bo Nix, or Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy, or pursuing free agents like Ryan Tannehill, Joe Flacco, or Gardner Minshew.