Vikings Secure Jefferson with Record-Breaking Contract

The Minnesota Vikings have solidified their future by signing wide receiver Justin Jefferson to a lucrative contract extension, the team officially announced on Monday.

The extension spans four years and boasts a staggering $140 million in total value, with an impressive $110 million guaranteed, according to sources close to the negotiations, as reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero. With this deal, Jefferson ascends to the pinnacle of non-quarterback earners in the NFL, as confirmed by Rapoport.

In his official statement, the 24-year-old expressed gratitude towards the Vikings organization and his support system for their unwavering belief in him.

Jefferson’s on-field prowess has been evident, having amassed four consecutive seasons with over 1,000 receiving yards, including a league-leading 1,809 yards in 2022. Despite playing just 10 games last season, he managed to secure 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 explosiveness, earning three Pro Bowl selections, two second-team All-Pro nods, and a first-team All-Pro honor. His standout performance led to him being named Offensive Player of the Year in 2022.

The LSU alum currently holds multiple NFL records, including the fastest player to reach 5,000 career receiving yards, the highest yardage through a player’s second, third, and fourth seasons, and the youngest player to lead the league in receiving yards. Additionally, he boasts the highest career average of receiving yards per game at 98.3.

Despite interest from multiple teams seeking to acquire Jefferson via trade during the offseason, the Vikings remained resolute in their stance, indicating to all suitors their lack of intention to trade him, sources revealed to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Jefferson’s career statistics stand at an impressive 392 receptions, 5,899 yards, and 30 touchdowns in just 60 games. Notably, his yardage tally establishes a new NFL record for the most yards accumulated before a player’s 25th birthday. He surpasses the previous record held by Hall of Famer Randy Moss (5,396) and Dallas Cowboys’ standout CeeDee Lamb (5,145), who are the only other players to achieve over 5,000 receiving yards by that age.