The Minnesota Vikings have something large looming during this offseason. That is the future of star WR Justin Jefferson. He is entering the final year of his contract in 2024. Now, there are rumors suggesting that Jefferson may be on his way out of Minnesota and heading to a new team.
Justin Jefferson Spotted Near New York Jets Training Facility
According to Pat Ragazzo of Sports Illustrated, Justin Jefferson was spotted in Florham Park, NJ this past weekend. Why is this relevant? Because this is where the New York Jets training facility is located.
To add fuel to the fire, Jefferson did not report to the Vikings’ facility today for organized team activities. This is according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.
As mentioned above, Justin Jefferson is in the final year of his contract with the Vikings. If the two sides fail to reach an agreement before the trade deadline in 2024, Minnesota could risk letting Jefferson walk and not getting anything in return. However, if the Minnesota Vikings were to trade Jefferson, it is assumed that they would get a decent haul in return for him.
Benefits for New York Jets to Acquire Jefferson
There are two notable reasons why the Jets may want to acquire Jefferson. The first is to arguably have the top duo of wide receivers in the NFL. Right now, New York already has Garrett Wilson. Adding Jefferson would certainly put the Jets in this discussion.
The second reason is the return of veteran QB Aaron Rodgers. Last year, Rodgers’ season ended after just four snaps due to a torn Achilles injury. However, he has apparently made significant progress healing from this injury. There is high potential for Rodgers to show us that he still has some of his old self left in him next season.
Justin Jefferson Legal Trouble in New Jersey?
It is important to note that there could be another reason Jefferson ended up in New Jersey this past weekend. Three months ago, it was reported that Jefferson was facing a paternity lawsuit initiated by a woman from New Jersey. This woman is Andrea Galea, who lives in Essex County. This is not far from the Jets’ training facility.
With that in mind, Jefferson may have had to make a court appearance in relation to this paternity lawsuit. Or the two sides may have been trying to arrange a settlement in person. If either of these turns out to be the case, there could end up being some false hope for Jets fans.
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