The NFL’s top wide receiver, Justin Jefferson, is expected to make a significant demand of the Minnesota Vikings that could impact his contract negotiations.
With over 1,000 yards in every season of play, the 25-year-old has proven he’s a once-in-a-generation star. Last year, he played in just 10 games. The Vikings are obviously eager to sign him to a significant agreement since he’s been the best receiver they’ve had since Randy Moss left 20 years ago.
But there’s a catch – Jefferson won’t sign unless the team has a plan for their quarterback. With rumours of Kirk Cousins leaving, it’s clear Jefferson wants the team to keep him around and sign him to an extension before he himself commits to the team long-term, according to NFL Network.
Jefferson has always backed Cousins, who’s put up some impressive numbers over the past few seasons. Cousins is set to become a free agent after playing last year under a one-year, $35 million deal.
Cousins started 2023 strongly before an injury ended his season. Now, it seems the Vikings are on the hunt for a new long-term franchise quarterback.
Last season, Jefferson was very clear about who he wants throwing the ball to him. He said to the news people: “I definitely will always give that extra word for Kirko. And I feel like I really don’t have to voice my opinion that much. Just look at his play before he went down.”
“His leadership. His knowledge of the game. His awareness. There’s definitely something missing not having that main piece out there on the table.”
Justin Jefferson wants the Vikings to resign Kirk Cousins before he commits to a long-term deal
Cousins has been in the news with talks about maybe going to the Atlanta Falcons or the New England Patriots, but it seems like he would rather stay with the Vikings. He even said he might take less money to stay.
Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has already stated he wants Cousins to stay. If they don’t sign him before other teams can talk to him, they might have to fight to keep him.
Jefferson’s wishes could also play a part in what happens with Cousins. He wants Cousins on the team before he agrees to stay for a long time, which is what the Vikings want to do right now.
While we’re not sure what will happen with Cousins’ contract, Jefferson doesn’t have to worry about that. The Vikings are likely to pay him a lot, maybe over $30 million a year, to make sure he stays in Minnesota.
