Jeremy Fowler reveals potential hurdles for lucrative contract extension for Vikings WR Justin Jefferson

Justin Jefferson is going to be the highest paid wide receiver in the NFL one day, but maybe just not this season.

Jeremy Fowler of ESPN joined SportsCenter on Sunday to give an update on the Minnesota Vikings star wide receiver’s financial future. He recognizes that the former LSU superstar is going to get a lucrative contract extension within the next couple of years, but he may just have to play the waiting game.

“Talking about receivers, you see Justin Jefferson there. Could be big money on the way at some point,” explained Fowler. “The Vikings believe he’s a cornerstone player. Best wide receiver in the league. They want to sign him to an extension at some point.

“Two potential hurdles in the way though. He’s only three years in to a rookie deal that has two years left with a fifth-year option. There’s no major rush to do it right now. And then the market for receivers, you’re looking at around $30 million or more. Tyreek Hill makes $30 million a year on a big deal, so they might need to make Justin Jefferson the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league. So those are some hurdles, but certainly the Vikings want to do it at some point. Jefferson is expected an training camp regardless.”

It makes sense why the Vikings would want to wait. It’s not like Jefferson has requested a trade unless Minnesota pays him, and he’s not hitting free agency for at least three more years on his current deal.

There’s likely an understanding between Jefferson and Minnesota. The star wide receiver is going to break the bank soon, but the wiggle room isn’t exactly there yet for the Vikings, and it doesn’t make sense regarding Jefferson’s timeline in the league thus far.

Moving forward, Jefferson will continue to be the focal point of the Vikings offense, especially with the team moving on from star running back Dalvin Cook. Additionally, with the drafting on former USC Trojans star wide receiver Jordan Addison, more of the field could be open for the Vikings leader in 2023.

Nevertheless, the Minnesota Vikings are preparing to back up the Brinks Truck towards Justin Jefferson’s house in the near future. It just may take some time until they’re ready to put pen to paper.