What a Potential Justin Jefferson Contract Extension Could Look Like

Jan 7, 2024; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson (18) looks at the big screen during second half of the game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Credit: David Reginek-USA TODAY Sports

The NFL Draft wrapped up nearly two months ago, and teams across the league, including the Minnesota Vikings, have finished rookie mini-camps and voluntary OTAs. Despite this, All-Pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson remains without a contract extension as he approaches the final year of his rookie deal.

Last season, Jefferson sustained a hamstring injury that lingered, limiting him to a career-low 10 games. Despite this, he managed to record 68 receptions for 1,048 yards and five touchdowns. Since joining the league in 2020, he has consistently delivered, achieving four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, with three of those seasons surpassing 1,400 yards—a record for the start of an NFL career.

Now seems like the perfect time to explore what a potential contract extension for Jefferson might look like, as he is likely to sign a new deal any day now.

There is widespread speculation that Jefferson aims to become not only the highest-paid wide receiver in the league but also the highest-paid non-quarterback. He seeks to surpass San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa, who signed a five-year, $170 million deal last season with $122.5 million guaranteed.

If Minnesota is willing to give Jefferson what he is wanting, it appears that talks will begin with Bosa’s structured contract, so if that’s the case, his potential extension is looking along the lines of five-years, $175 million with $130 million guaranteed. 

Currently, only three wide receivers in the NFL earn an average salary of $30 million or more per year: Philadelphia Eagles' A.J. Brown ($32 million), Detroit Lions' Amon-Ra St. Brown ($30.002 million), and Miami Dolphins' Tyreek Hill ($30 million). Jefferson's next deal is expected to surpass all three of these contracts by a wide margin.

The question now is whether Minnesota's ownership will give General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah the green light. The deal is likely to get done, but if the team wants to keep Jefferson long-term, this is the type of deal and structure needed to secure his future with the team.