When Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson revealed to Sirius XM’s Adam Schein that he intended to “break the bank” when he signed an impending contract extension, the statement went viral. Before Jefferson signs the document, he might have one more need.
Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero, and Mike Garafolo of NFL Network speculate that Jefferson may postpone signing his extension in order to give the Vikings more time to resolve their quarterback dilemma. Jefferson, a supporter of quarterback Kirk Cousins, “will want to know the quarterback plan before signing on for the long haul,” according to NFL Network.
Although Cousins is coming off a season-ending torn Achilles tendon, the market for the 36-year-old quarterback in free agency is anticipated to be rather strong, and the Vikings are hoping to re-sign Cousins.
The Vikings would probably want to sign a less expensive experienced quarterback if they are unable to re-sign Cousins. Sam Darnold was mentioned by NFL Network as a quarterback who would fit well in Minnesota. The Vikings may also sign a veteran as a short-term alternative and use the No. 11 pick to draft a quarterback, or they may trade up to acquire the quarterback of the future.
The Vikings also need to decide how to handle edge rusher Danielle Hunter. Additionally, he is a free agent, and it doesn’t seem possible to extend Jefferson and re-sign both Cousins and Hunter.
For the Vikings, this offseason will be extremely important.
