The Minnesota Vikings have agreed to terms with superstar wideout Justin Jefferson on a contract extension that makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.
The Vikings confirmed the agreement Monday morning, saying Jefferson is “here to stay.” Jefferson also posted a video announcement at 8:18 a.m., an ode to his No. 18 jersey.
“The time has finally come — the deal I’ve been waiting for since I was a little kid,” Jefferson said, adding that he’s been doubted throughout his career. “This whole journey wasn’t easy for me.”
The Minnesota Vikings are taking a patient approach with the development of rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy.
Kevin Seifert of ESPN reported McCarthy is “squarely behind” Sam Darnold on the Vikings’ depth chart this offseason.
Darnold has taken the majority of first-team reps, with McCarthy often coming in even behind Nick Mullens in the pecking order.
This should come as no surprise, as the Vikings signed Darnold this offseason to serve as a stopgap starter ahead of their quarterback of the future.
Minnesota tabbed McCarthy with that moniker after trading up to take him with the No. 10 pick in April’s NFL draft, but there is no rush to thrust him into first-team reps.
McCarthy was always seen as a prospect who may need a full year to develop.
He just turned 21 in January and spent his career at Michigan playing a game-manager role rather than being the focal point in the Wolverines offense.
Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson said he’s already taken McCarthy under his wing.
“I talked to J.J. as soon as he got drafted. I told him confidence is key, just coming into this league with confidence and being able to have that leadership just right off the bat being a rookie,” Jefferson told reporters.
“There’s going to be people to come and help.
