7 bold predictions for the Vikings 2023 training camp
By Chris Schad
Bold Prediction No. 1
Justin Jefferson and T.J. Hockenson will sign extensions before the first training camp practice
Money has been one of the main themes of the Vikings' offseason, and that should continue in the weeks leading up to training camp. Justin Jefferson, T.J. Hockenson, and potentially Danielle Hunter are all set to get paid in the near future, but it’s fair to wonder which Minnesota players will sign an extension before they hit the practice field.
The most logical choice is Jefferson, who should be in line to become the highest-paid receiver in the NFL. While Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio said there are whispers the Vikings would choose to wait on a deal, the price of Jefferson’s extension will only rise – especially after CeeDee Lamb signs a potential extension in the range of $25-$30 million per season.
The next best bet is Hockenson, who the Vikings have prominently displayed since acquiring him at last year’s trade deadline. After arriving in Minnesota prior to Week 8, Hockenson ranked 10th with 33 receptions, 16th with 41 targets, and 26th with 305 receiving yards among all skill position players. With Hockenson’s adequate blocking ability and the amount of draft capital used to acquire him, the Vikings are likely to work something out.
While Jefferson and Hockenson should both cash in before camp, Hunter’s fate might not be as clear. Hunter signed a five-year, $72 million extension in 2018, but the contract has been modified multiple times as other top defensive ends have received deals north of $100 million.
After recording 10.5 sacks while playing out of position in Ed Donatell’s scheme, Hunter still believes he’s one of the best pass-rushers in the NFL. His history of injuries gives the Vikings pause, however, and it could lead to a pre-camp deal where Hunter is traded for draft capital.
With a month to go before training camp, it’s likely deals with Jefferson and Hockenson will get done, but Hunter’s situation is one that is worth monitoring.