How Justin Jefferson could force Kirk Cousins out of Minnesota

Minnesota Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson is on track to for a massive pay day and it’s something that could result in the departure of Kirk Cousins.

During his first two seasons in the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings, Justin Jefferson has been the primary target of quarterback Kirk Cousins. In their two years together, the duo has connected 190 times for 2,958 yards and 17 touchdowns.

As productive as Jefferson and Cousins have been for the Vikings during the last two seasons, their time as teammates could be coming to an end sooner than later.

Following the conclusion of his third season with Minnesota, Jefferson will become eligible for a contract extension. As it stands currently, the young playmaker is on track to become the highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL whenever he signs his next deal. Unfortunately for Cousins, a lucrative extension for Jefferson could be what forces the veteran quarterback out the door.

Huge contract could cause Minnesota Vikings to choose Justin Jefferson over Kirk Cousins

Currently, Tyreek Hill of the Miami Dolphins is the wide receiver with the most lucrative contract in the NFL with an average annual salary of $30 million.

By the time Jefferson signs his extension with the Vikings, that number could potentially be up to $35 million. Ironically, that amount is currently Cousins’ average annual salary.

In 2024, the current contract of Minnesota’s veteran quarterback is set to expire. Depending on how much Cousins would like in a new deal, his asking price could result in his departure from the Twin Cities.

Even if the Pro Bowl quarterback puts together some magnificent performances during the next two seasons under new Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell, the franchise could still look to move on following the 2023 campaign.

If Minnesota is forced to pick between paying Jefferson or paying Cousins, the choice is easy. It’s Jefferson, every single time.

Cousins and the Vikings could potentially agree to a new contract after his current one expires. But it would have to be at a much lower price than the average amount he’s currently making.

If Cousins doesn’t want to take a pay cut to stay in Minnesota, then his time with the organization could come to an end.