Can the Vikings Afford to Retain Justin Jefferson With $28M Salary Cap at Their Disposal?

Justin Jefferson’s commitment to the Minnesota Vikings beyond his rookie deal hinges on a crucial condition. This is despite his potential to become the top wide receiver in the NFL and secure an unprecedented contract in the future. Jefferson has made it clear that he will only ink a new deal if the team outlines a clear quarterback plan. This comes forward, especially amid speculation about Kirk Cousins’ departure.

Jefferson also expressed his desire for the Vikings to retain Cousins, signaling the significance of a stable quarterback situation in his decision-making process. Furthermore, retaining the star WR will also mean a great hit in the bank for the Vikings, since his salary expectations would nullify any more space for other talents.

What does it mean for the Vikings to retain Justin Jefferson?

“Of course, I would want a contract to be done,” Jefferson told reporters when asked about an extension, per ESPN. “But at the end of the day, it is all up to them and what the ownership wants to do with that.” The Vikings indeed have plenty of cap space for the 2024 season.

As Justin Jefferson emerges as a sought-after talent in the NFL, Spotrac estimates his value at an impressive $29.3 million annually. However, given the inflationary trend in the market, the expectation is that he will surpass the $30 million benchmark set by Tyreek Hill of the Miami Dolphins.

If Kirk Cousins bids adieu to the team, the Vikings would be left with a dead cap of $29 million. There can be two scenarios – Vikings restructuring a deal to create cap room for the 2024 season, or reportedly signing Jefferson to a five-year deal worth $172.5 million, including a $50 million signing bonus.

This may sound like a big deal, but it could undoubtedly reduce the team’s salary cap hit by about $10 million this offseason. Realistically, they will have ample room for adjustments after signing Kirk and Jefferson.

The Vikings have a choice to make with Justin Jefferson, weighing the use of the franchise tag against securing his future with a long-term contract. However, this offseason offers the perfect opportunity for the Vikings to proactively negotiate with Jefferson, courtesy of General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah having the luxury of time and no competing bids in sight. It’s a strategic moment for the Vikings to solidify Jefferson’s presence beyond 2024.

On the flip side, if Adofo-Mensah harbors doubts about the wisdom of a $30-plus million investment in Jefferson, now might be the opportune moment to leverage the receiver’s trade value. So, this conundrum lies big in the face of the Vikings, to either retain or trade their star wide receivers.  Moreover, Jefferson also wants to know the status of the QB Kirk Cousins, before he signs the extension contract.

Jefferson wants Kirk Cousins by his side

Justin Jefferson seems to have a stroke of luck as the possibility of Kirk Cousins making a return to Minnesota gains traction. The Vikings’ General Manager, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, has openly conveyed his desire to retain Cousins. As things stand, the decision appears to hinge on financial considerations and the ownership’s willingness to extend further investment to Cousins.

Read More: NFL Trade Rumors – Russell Wilson Faces Stiff Competition From Kirk Cousins as Atlanta Falcons Explore QB Options

As one of the top receivers in the league, Jefferson holds significant leverage. So, he said, “I definitely will always give that extra word for Kirko. I feel like I really don’t have to voice my opinion that much. Just look at his play before he went down. … His leadership. His knowledge of the game. His awareness. There’s definitely something missing not having that main piece out there on the table.”

So, the situation of Justin Jefferson still seems to be a bit lopsided, and it’s to be seen if the Vikings will ignore their maximum salary cap of $30 million just to retain the star WR. What do you think about this? Let us know in the comments section.

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