Justin Jefferson has just become the highest-paid non-quarterback player in the NFL. The wide receiver signed a four-year contract extension with the Minnesota Vikings, placing him above San Francisco 49ers’ defensive end Nick Bosa in earnings.

Neither the team nor the player revealed the financial terms of the contract. However, NFL Network insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported that the deal is worth $140 million with $110 million guaranteed. These figures result in an annual salary of $35 million.

Bosa’s contract is for $170 million, but it lasts five years, so his annual salary is $34 million, leaving him slightly below Jefferson. However, both are above other similar agreements, such as those of Amon-Ra St. Brown with the Detroit Lions and DeVonta Smith with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Travis Kelce, the best tight end and one of the most popular players of the moment, earns barely half as much as Jefferson and Bosa. His most recent contract extension with the Chiefs is $34.3 million for two years, and his average annual salary is approximately $17.1 million.

Jefferson expressed his gratitude

In a video posted to his Instagram account, the former LSU Tiger expressed his gratitude to God for the deal and for having the opportunity to play football at the highest level.

He also thanked his family for all their support. “Y’all made me who I am today. This is a new step in our journey, a new step in life. I always dreamt of this moment and to now share it with all of y’all – a dream that we all had, it’s a blessing.”

In a statement released by the team, the receiver thanked the Wilf family, which owns the team, head coach Kevin O’Connell, and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. “Lastly, to Vikings fans everywhere, you’ll continue to get my very best each and every day,” said the player.

The Louisiana State University product just entered the fourth and final year of his rookie contract with the Vikings. Although in 2023 he was only number 19 in yards gained by passing, with 1,074 on 68 catches, Jefferson is a cornerstone in offensive coordinator Wes Phillips’ scheme.

Vikings are happy with the extension

Adofo-Mensah expressed his satisfaction at having achieved the contract extension with Jefferson. “From the moment I arrived in Minnesota, Justin has consistently proven to be one of the best players in the NFL on and off the field, and we are excited about having him as a cornerstone of our team for a long time to come,” the GM said.

O’Connell, for his part, praised the player’s qualities and thanked the team leadership for having finalized the agreement. “I’m grateful to the Wilfs, Kwesi, Rob Brzezinski, and our staff for ensuring one of the brightest stars in professional sports will continue his career as a Minnesota Viking,” stressed the Vikings head coach.