Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson has his sights set on a significant payday as talks of a potential contract extension loom.
Expressing his ambitions on the “Schein on Sports” show on Mad Dog Sports Radio, Jefferson stated, “I want to break the bank and be a part of an organization that wants me and (is willing) to give me what I deserve.”
Discussions regarding a contract extension between the Vikings and their superstar player took place before the onset of the 2023 season. However, both parties decided to postpone negotiations until the conclusion of the season after failing to reach an agreement.
Heading into the final year of his rookie contract in 2024, which carries a $19.7-million salary according to Spotrac, Jefferson remains confident that Minnesota will act in good faith during the upcoming negotiations. “Eventually the Vikings will do what they need to do to have me in the building,” he affirmed.
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Despite missing seven games due to a hamstring injury, the 2022 first-team All-Pro wideout managed to amass 68 receptions for 1,074 yards and five touchdowns. This represented a slight dip in production compared to the previous year when Jefferson led the league with 128 catches for 1,809 yards.
When questioned about his future should the Vikings fail to meet his contract demands, Jefferson admitted uncertainty, stating, “I’m not really too sure at this very moment.” Nonetheless, he expressed gratitude towards the organization for providing him with opportunities, acknowledging, “I definitely wouldn’t be in this situation if they didn’t pick me.”
Since being selected in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Jefferson has been a focal point of the Vikings’ offense, amassing 392 receptions for 5,899 yards and 30 touchdowns in 60 career games, setting a historic pace.
In his next contract, the LSU product aims to surpass the $30-million average salary of Tyreek Hill, the league’s highest-paid receiver. While fair compensation is paramount, Jefferson emphasized his desire to remain with the team he considers “home” since entering the league. “With everything I have given to the organization, of course I would want to stay,” he affirmed.
