4 Vikings rookie extension candidates for 2024 and what they might get
By Adam Carlson
Vikings extension candidate No. 1
Justin Jefferson, wide receiver
Although he is technically playing on the fifth-year option of his rookie deal, the Minnesota Vikings can't afford to let Justin Jefferson hit free agency and the clock is starting to tick on getting that deal done.
Jefferson is a generational talent and arguably the best player at his position. Honestly, if not for other team needs, it wouldn't be too shocking if the Vikings handed their star pass-catcher a blank check. However, determining an approximate contract value for him could be a huge challenge.
Recently, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers came to a deal with Mike Evans on a two-year extension worth $52 million with $35 million guaranteed. Jefferson's deal with Minnesota will eclipse those numbers by the time it is complete.
In addition to getting a bigger deal than Evans, Jefferson also appears to be in a friendly competition with Bengals WR Ja'Marr Chase. The former LSU receivers are set to be paid soon and it will be interesting to see which player sets the bar.