The Minnesota Vikings opened their 2024 offseason program Monday, and they did so without the team’s most important player: star wide receiver Justin Jefferson. Speaking to reporters Monday, coach Kevin O’Connell admitted he didn’t know when Jefferson would report, while reiterating the communication he’s had with the All-Pro wide receiver.
“I’ve had a lot of good dialogues with Justin, even early in this offseason and into this one,” O’Connell said, by KTSP. “Hopefully we can develop him into the team. Obviously (he’s) such a special player, but it goes beyond that at this time of year because of the energy and the The way he comes in and, when he’s in this building, goes to work… I want him here as much as we can have him, but I also understand that there are a lot of factors involved… He’s a special player. special.
Jefferson’s absence is notable given that the forward has yet to land a new long-term contract with the Vikings, although he is eligible for an extension this offseason. It also means almost nothing in the grand scheme of things. At least for now.
Jefferson, after all, did not attend the start of voluntary workouts during the 2023 offseason, only to report to mandatory minicamp and organized team activities (OTAs), as well as the entire camp. training in summer. He was then also eligible for a new contract. In other words, his presence or absence from this spring’s lineup — much like that of any other veteran on the roster — shouldn’t set off any sirens regarding his future with the team unless/until that results in mandated activities.
The star point guard is technically under contract through 2024, with $19.7 million guaranteed as part of a fifth-year option on his rookie contract. He and the Vikings have expressed interest in an extension, and although the pass catcher could wait to see how Minnesota approaches the quarterback position — which is now without longtime starter Kirk Cousins — before Putting pen to paper, the Vikings are widely expected to add a quarterback early in April’s draft. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, meanwhile, has shown no desire to entertain a potential trade of the Pro Bowl player.
