As the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, Justin Jefferson set a new standard for the wide receiver position with his $140 million agreement with the Minnesota Vikings in June 2024.
FILE – Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson (18) catches a 17-yard touchdown pass ahead of New York Giants cornerback Jason Pinnock (27) during the second half of an NFL football game Dec. 24, 2022, in Minneapolis. Jefferson has exceeded high expectations.(AP Photo/Bruce Kluckhohn, File)
Dianna Russini of Scoop City sat down with Jefferson for an open discussion as his deal sparked a stir in the league. The wide receiver gave the following advice when asked about what he would advise players like Brandon Aiyuk and CeeDee Lamb, who are awaiting contract extensions: put their performance on the field first.
“I would just say don’t let it distract you from what you’re good at, which is playing football.”
He revealed that he followed suit during his contract negotiations, avoiding being sidetracked by rumors circulated by the media and social media users.
Justin Jefferson’s strategy during his contract talks
His primary goal remained to perform well on the field while allowing the negotiations over a contract to continue behind closed doors.
He avoided the daily contract discussions so that he could focus entirely on his game. He trusted his agents and the Minnesota Vikings to handle the specifics of the negotiations.
Both Lamb and Aiyuk are now refusing to leave their training camps with the Cowboys and 49ers, respectively. As his rookie contract draws to a conclusion, Lamb wants assurance and a long-term commitment from America’s team, even though he is aiming to become one of the most paid wide receivers in the league. Jefferson also revealed that money wasn’t his major priority while reflecting on his contract extension.
