The Minnesota Vikings began organized team activities (OTAs) on Monday, but they will be doing so without their most prolific player, as star wide receiver Justin Jefferson did not participate in the start of voluntary practice this week, according to ESPN. It became.
The three-time Pro Bowler is in the final year of his rookie contract and is negotiating with the team for a long-term extension. The 24-year-old also sat out most of Minnesota’s voluntary offseason program in 2023 before participating in mandatory minicamp and training camp.
His absence comes less than a week after the departure of Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell. Neglected concerns The wideout’s contract has been the subject of much speculation and reporting since Jefferson first became eligible for a new deal before the 2023 season.
“I know everything will be fine there,” O’Connell said on “Up & Adams” ahead of this week’s OTAs. “Justin knows the love and admiration that I have for him, and I also know that he is a huge part of what we do in this region. It’s on the field, it’s off the field. He brings so much energy to our building every time.” …Justin Jefferson is a huge part of this organization. ”
General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah also expressed optimism about signing Jefferson to a new contract, denying he had ever considered trading the receiver rather than extending his lucrative contract. His fifth-year option is due for $19.7 million in 2024, considering fellow wideouts, including the Detroit Lions’ Amon-Ra St. Brown, have scored as much this offseason. That could mean Jefferson could earn more than $30 million annually in his new contract.
