Justin Jefferson’s $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings in June 2024 set a new benchmark for the NFL wide receiver market, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL. But when Jeffferson was asked about the weight of this contract, he simply advised players like CeeDee Lamb and Brandon Aiyuk to not get distracted.
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As Jefferson’s own contract caused ripple effects in the league, Dianna Russini from Scoop City, sat down for a candid chat and asked about his advice for players such as Lamb and Aiyuk, players who are awaiting their contract extensions.
the WR just advised them to focus on their on-field performances and the rest should take care of itself.
“I would just say don’t let it distract you from what you’re good at, which is playing football.”
He shared that during his contract talks, he did the same without getting distracted by any kind of speculation from media buzz and social media discussions. His main focus remained to deliver performances on the field and let the contract talks progress behind the scenes.
Jefferson trusted his agents and the Minnesota Vikings to handle the details of negotiations and steered clear of the daily contract talks to concentrate fully on his game.
Aiyuk and Lamb are both currently holding out from training camp with the 49ers and Cowboys respectively.
While the 49ers WR is looking to become one of the highest paid in the league, Lamb wants assurance and long-term commitment from America’s team, as he nears the end of his rookie contract.
Now that it’s done, Jefferson fondly looks back on his contract extension and talks about money not being at the top of his priorities.
Jefferson reveals his true priority in contract talks
The Vikings wide receiver’s contract extension was a huge move for his family and him. Looking back on the moment when the deal was finalized, Jefferson expressed relief, but shared that he was more focused on the field and on winning the Super Bowl.
“Money wasn’t a big thing for me; I was more focused on my play on the field and how I can get to the Super Bowl…I knew that the money was going to come when it comes.”
With the deal now settled, Jefferson can wholeheartedly devote himself to football without being weighed down by any negotiations about NFL contracts.
As the upcoming NFL season starts on September 5, it would be interesting to see if Jefferson is able to justify his $140 million deal. But as of right now, Santa’s come home early this season for Jeffersons.
