It took one sentence to show why Justin Jefferson will live up to the historical contract the Vikings gave him
When asked, most people will tell you that Minnesota Vikings superstar Justin Jefferson is the best receiver in the league. Sure, guys like Tyreek Hill and even CeeDee Lamb can make an argument in their favor, but ultimately, it's Jefferson's crown.And his new four-year, $140 million contract extension reflects just that. But, it's not just […]
When asked, most people will tell you that Minnesota Vikings superstar Justin Jefferson is the best receiver in the league. Sure, guys like Tyreek Hill and even CeeDee Lamb can make an argument in their favor, but ultimately, it's Jefferson's crown.
And his new four-year, $140 million contract extension reflects just that. But, it's not just about the money and it's never been just about the money. Sure, receiving instant, generational wealth is a wonderful part of the equation, but the game of football means so much more to the fifth-year veteran.
"Just like I've said plenty and plenty of times, there's more to it than just the money for me," Jefferson told reporters Tuesday. "I want to be the best player to ever do it. So in order to do that, I got to keep performing at my ability and you know with that, money is going to be involved. But that wasn't my main concern."
Just like in life outside the hashmarks, money represents status. Now, Jefferson is the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history and that's a big deal. He's solidified himself as the best receiver in ability, production, and pay.
He sees a different side to the "status" element, however, and it's yet another reflection of his character. Not only is he elite on the field, but he is the same off of it.
"And now being a leader of this team and carrying myself a different way," said Jefferson. "Just like I told him [Coach O'Connell], I'm going to be on everyone's butt, I'm going to be on everyone hard and I'm gonna make sure that I'm the leader of this team and we're working to where we want to go which is a world championship…
"… Being the highest paid just comes with being a leader."
And make no mistake about it – he's ready to get started. Like, he was ready to go ahead and end Wednesday's presser as quickly as possible, simply because he was ready to go to work and prove he's worth every penny of the historical contract he signed on Monday.
"Thank y'all, I appreciate y'all. But I got some work to do. So. Let's wrap this up. Any questions?"
The fact Jefferson is ready to immediately get to work, outside of the fact that Tuesday marked the official start of mandatory minicamp, fully embodies what the dude is all about and his character, work ethic, and never-say-die attitude is exactly why he's here today. On top of an amazing support system, of course.
And, just that one line should be the start of a very, very successful five-year run. One that should even top JJ's first four years in the league.
