Without a doubt, Justin Jefferson is most likely to start the NFL season in Week 1.
Jefferson and the Minnesota Vikings are “not expected” to reach a deal on a new long-term contract before Sunday’s season-opening game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
“Both sides made a strong effort to get a deal done,” Schefter continued, “but the plan is now to revisit after the season.”
The contract
Naturally, a contract would be desirable, Justin Jefferson told reporters on Thursday. However, it ultimately depends on them and what the ownership wants to do with that.
The Vikings aim to keep their star wide receiver, according to general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. Still, he did not say whether there was any urgency to finalize a contract immediately.
“I’ll have those conversations,” he promised.
Justin Jeffrey NLF journey
When Jefferson started a game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium against the New Orleans Saints, his season with the Minnesota Vikings got underway.
Jefferson had 147 receiving yards and a rushing touchdown during the fourth week of the season, which the Vikings won 28-25.
The next week, Jefferson had a career-high 12 receptions for 154 receiving yards in a 29-22 victory over the Chicago Bears.
Jefferson surpassed Randy Moss’s previous franchise record of 227 catches during a career’s first three years with his third catch of the contest.
Is Justin Jefferson still on the Vikings?
Justin Jefferson is still on the Vikings. The Vikings don’t need to feel a sense of urgency right now. The 2023 season is one of the final two years of Jefferson’s rookie contract.
A transaction should be concluded as soon as possible to prevent the possibility of the receiver market growing when further players sign new contracts.
Tyreek Hill, whose average yearly remuneration is $30 million, is the highest-paid wide receiver. Davante Adams’ contract is the most lucrative overall ($140 million).
Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase of the Cincinnati Bengals might sign contracts worth at least $30 million annually. Chase isn’t able to sign an extension until after the 2023 season, despite being open about keeping an eye on what Jefferson will agree to.
After an extraordinary start to his career, Jefferson has a compelling case for holding that title.
The 24-year-old has spent his first three seasons on the All-Pro team. His 4,825 yards are the most in a player’s first three seasons in the NFL.
Justin Jefferson Net Worth
The current net worth of Justin Jefferson is $7 million. However, it is expected to rise, and in the upcoming seasons, we might easily see him earning double digits. His salary, thought to cost about $3.3 million annually, accounts for a sizable portion of his worth.
Additionally, we should include the signing bonus contract he agreed to when he signed with the Minnesota Vikings. Over the following two years, he is expected to earn $13 million in salary.
Conclusion
It is highly unlikely that the Minnesota Vikings and Justin Jefferson will reach a long-term contract agreement before the NFL season in 2023.
Regardless of endeavors from the two players, conversations have been delayed until after the momentum season.
Jefferson, who has been successful and set franchise records in his first three seasons, is a player the Vikings want to keep.
The situation has made his future less certain. However, the team will still greatly benefit from his contributions on the field next season.