Justin Jefferson has set a new benchmark in the NFL by inking a jaw-dropping contract worth more than £109mllion with the Minnesota Vikings, ending speculation over his future.
The 2022 Offensive Player of the Year, who was on the last leg of his rookie deal, played the long game and it's paid off massively after opting against signing a new deal on the eve of the 2023 season.
The 24-year-old wide receiver, originally picked 22nd in the 2020 NFL Draft, has now secured his long-term with a four-year extension. According to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport, the deal works out at almost £30m annually ($35m), with a staggering £86m in guaranteed money ($110m).
Jefferson, a three-time Pro Bowler, is now officially the highest-paid receiver in the league. His new paycheck eclipses Amon-Ra St. Brown's £94m deal ($120m) with the Detroit Lions inked in April and matches the value of Devante Adams' contract with the Las Vegas Raiders, although Adams' is spread over five years.
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Taking to social media, Jefferson shared his excitement: "The time has come. The deal I was waiting for ever since I was a little kid.
"[I have] been doubted my whole career, not being highly recruited, not being the first receiver off the draft board. This whole journey wasn't easy for me."
In a heartfelt acknowledgment, he added: "First of all, I want to thank the man above. Without God, this wouldn't be possible at all. To be given a gift to play football at the highest level, it's a blessing and an honor.
"My mom and dad, thank you. This is a journey for all of us and you [are] still with us every step of the way. To my brothers, y'all are everything, y'all made me who I am today. This is a new step on our journey and a new step in life. Always dreamt of this moment and now to share it with all of y'all, it's a blessing."
"[Head coach] Kevin O'Connell, [general manager] Kwesi [Adofo-Mensah], [Vikings owners] the Wilfs, I appreciate y'all for giving me this opportunity."
Jefferson shined last season despite missing seven games with a hamstring issue (Getty Images)"Last but not least, thank you to the fans. You all set the tone, you set the mood, y'all set the energy and I'm definitely excited to set that energy for five more years. This is the start of it, but we ain't done yet."
O'Connell was thrilled with the Vikings securing the deal, expressing: "Justin is an exceptionally talented player and an incredible person that I am honored to coach and have as a team captain. His positive energy and love for the game shows up every single day as he works to be the best at his craft.
"As coaches, we will do our part in helping him maximize his ability. I'm grateful to the Wilfs, Kwesi, Rob Brzezinski and our staff for ensuring one of the brightest stars in professional sports will continue his career as a Minnesota Viking."
LSU graduate Jefferson has surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in each of his four seasons in the NFL and he topped the league with 128 receptions for 1,809 yards in 2022. His 2023 campaign was hampered by a hamstring problem, but he still amassed 1,074 yards and five touchdowns in just nine starts, cementing his reputation as one of the most dynamic playmakers in the sport.
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