Justin Jefferson Announces Record-Breaking Contract Extension with Vikings
EAGAN, Minn. – Against a backdrop of his personal football memorabilia, Justin Jefferson took a seat, ready to share his latest milestone with the world.
The time has finally come — the deal I have been waiting for since I was a little kid," Jefferson announced in a video message posted at 8:18 a.m. (CT), a nod to his No. 18 Vikings jersey.
Reflecting on his journey, Jefferson acknowledged the doubts he faced in high school and during the 2020 NFL Draft but focused on those who believed in him. Their support, through both highs and lows, has helped him secure the highest contract ever for a non-quarterback in NFL history. This four-year deal, added to the final year of his rookie contract, keeps him with the Vikings through 2028.
First off, I want to thank the man above. Without God, this wouldn't be possible at all, Jefferson said. To be given a gift to play football at the highest level, it's a blessing, an honor.
He expressed gratitude to his parents, brothers, and the entire Vikings organization, highlighting their integral roles in his journey. "This is a new step in our journey, a new step in life. I always dreamt of this moment and to now share it with all of y'all — a dream that we all had, it's a blessing," Jefferson added.
Jefferson also thanked the Wilf family ownership group, Head Coach Kevin O'Connell, General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, and the fans for their unwavering support. In a press release, he reiterated his gratitude: "I'd like to thank the Wilf family, Kevin O'Connell, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, and the entire Vikings organization for believing in me and trusting me to help lead this team. To all my teammates and coaches from the very beginning as a kid in Louisiana, all the way to the NFL, thank you for always being there for me and pushing me. Lastly, to Vikings fans everywhere, you'll continue to get my very best each and every day. SKOL!"
The Vikings did not disclose the financial details of the contract but confirmed it sets a record among non-quarterbacks.
Adofo-Mensah expressed his excitement, saying, "From the moment I arrived in Minnesota, Justin has consistently proven to be one of the best players in the NFL on and off the field, and we are excited about having him as a cornerstone of our team for a long time to come. He is the living embodiment of our culture with his joyful dedication to process and our goals. We couldn't be more excited for Justin and his family."
Head Coach Kevin O'Connell echoed these sentiments, praising Jefferson's talent and character. Justin is an exceptionally talented player and an incredible person that I am honored to coach and have as a team captain. His positive energy and love for the game shows up every single day as he works to be the best at his craft. As coaches, we will do our part in helping him maximize his ability. I'm grateful to the Wilfs, Kwesi, Rob Brzezinski, and our staff for ensuring one of the brightest stars in professional sports will continue his career as a Minnesota Viking
Jefferson's career stats are impressive: 392 receptions for 5,899 yards and 30 touchdowns, ranking him 10th in franchise history for receptions and 8th in yards. His receiving touchdowns tie him for 9th with Stefon Diggs. Despite missing seven games in 2023 due to a hamstring injury, Jefferson still finished the season with 68 receptions for 1,074 yards and five touchdowns.
Jefferson's consistency has set him apart, joining elite company by achieving at least 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first four seasons. He set career highs in 2023, including 107.4 receiving yards per game.
In 2022, Jefferson led the NFL with 128 receptions and 1,809 yards, breaking franchise records set by Hall of Famers Cris Carter and Randy Moss. His performance earned him numerous accolades, including a spot in the elite Madden 99 Club and a ranking as the No. 2 player in the NFL's Top 100 Players of 2023.
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Jefferson continues his career with the Vikings, he remains a central figure in the NFL, poised to add even more accomplishments to his already stellar resume.
The St. Rose, Louisiana, native was selected First-Team All-Pro in 2022 by The Associated Press and was named to the Second Team in 2020 and 2021. He is the first player in NFL history to have 1,400 yards in each of his first three seasons.
Originally selected by the Vikings in the first round (22nd overall) of the 2020 NFL Draft, Jefferson has played in 60 career games (57 starts) and has totaled 100-plus receiving yards in 29 games, including 223 at Detroit in December 2022 to set a new Vikings record in a regular-season game.
Jefferson's 29 games of 100-plus yards rank second behind Moss' 30 through five NFL seasons, so he needs just two such games this season to break another record. Moss played in 80 games through his first five seasons.
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