The Minnesota Vikings proceeded with their offseason program at the Twin Cities Orthopedics Performance Center this week, and once again, wide receiver Justin Jefferson was absent from the voluntary workouts. Emphasis on “voluntary.” He missed these voluntary sessions last season as well, but that hasn’t stopped the unfounded speculation from arising.
Sources: Star WR Justin Jefferson was spotted in Florham Park, NJ, over the weekend, which is where the Jets facility is located.
Jefferson is looking for a new contract with the Vikings. It’s possible MIN could trade him if they can’t come to terms on a new deal (opinion)
— Pat Ragazzo (@ragazzoreport) May 20, 2024
First of all, Justin Jefferson is still under contract with the Vikings, so if he were to show up at the Jets facilities, the Jets would be in significant trouble. Being in the same state or even in the same city as another team’s home base means nothing. For instance, J.J. McCarthy and Dallas Turner were both in Los Angeles last week; perhaps the Vikings should consider trading one or both of them to the Chargers or Rams, right?
Secondly, the Jets lack the cap space to manage a trade for Jefferson, especially considering the extension he’s likely to receive. Furthermore, there haven’t been any substantial indications that Jefferson’s relationship with the Vikings is strained enough for him to want out of Minnesota.
The relentless baseless speculation—”garbage” is the most fitting term at this point—is becoming exhausting. While the idea of Justin Jefferson playing in one of the major NFL markets might be thrilling for some league executives, there is no reason to believe the Vikings are interested in trading him.
This speculation will persist as long as Jefferson isn’t attending voluntary workouts. Remember, the Vikings’ mandatory minicamp begins in Eagan on June 4. If Jefferson is absent for those sessions, then it might be time for concern.
When Jefferson’s extension happens, those who thrive on making up stories will be at a loss. Without this narrative, they’ll have little to discuss.
