With the Minnesota Vikings’ historic four-year, $140 million contract extension on Monday, Justin Jefferson became the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. The possibility of Jefferson signing a contract with another team is eliminated, even if there was never any drama or uncertainty that the Vikings would secure their franchise face with an extension.
It does not follow, however, that no other clubs had trade interest, even if Jefferson and the Vikings were always dedicated to reaching a long-term agreement.
At least three clubs reportedly attempted to lure Minnesota with an offer that was too good for Jefferson to turn off, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The San Francisco 49ers, New York Jets, and Indianapolis Colts were those teams. The Vikings’ complete lack of interest in bargaining is the sole problem.
Never even came near. Teams made an effort to reach out. The Jets from New York made contact. The NFL’s Indianapolis Colts made contact. The 49ers made contact. All of this occurred prior to the draft. We’re not trading him, the Vikings informed every team that called them prior to the draft. Neither of the talks progressed with anyone. Thirty-one teams ought to have contacted the Vikings.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the 49ers, Jets, and Colts all tried to trade for Justin Jefferson.
Sending out a trade offer is free of charge. Even though the Vikings have never expressed interest in selling their franchise player—publicly or privately—it never hurts to ask if they’re willing to work things out. We’re shocked that more teams weren’t enquiring about signing one of the top players in the NFL, as Schefter pointed out.
