Amid the offseason uncertainty surrounding Brandon Aiyuk, the 49ers checked in on Justin Jefferson’s availability earlier than this yr’s NFL draft, however the Vikings had zero curiosity in buying and selling the star large receiver and instantly rebuffed San Francisco’s inquiries, league sources advised ESPN.
The 49ers weren’t the one group to verify in on Jefferson. The Jets and Colts additionally had some stage of curiosity, however the Vikings by no means thought-about shifting the three-time Professional Bowler and talks by no means went anyplace, in response to sources.
These inquiries got here earlier than the Vikings signed Jefferson to a report deal in June, making him the highest-paid large receiver in NFL historical past. Inquiring groups thought they could have the ability to tempt Minnesota into enticing commerce packages, however the Vikings solely have been fascinated with re-signing one of many league’s high gamers.
San Francisco faces Jefferson and the Vikings on Sunday, and 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan is aware of what kind of receiver his protection shall be up towards.
“There’s not an angle he cannot actually run at — at full pace and drop his weight,” Shanahan advised reporters. “He is additionally fearless in how he performs. His fingers are pretty much as good as anybody. From what I’ve heard from individuals who have been with him, they are saying he is one of many smartest gamers that individuals have been with. He is the total bundle.”
The Vikings signed Jefferson in June to a four-year, $140 million extension that features $110 million assured, sources advised ESPN. Lower than three months later, the Niners ended their contract stalemate with Aiyuk by signing him to a four-year, $120 million extension that features $76 million assured.
Vikings basic supervisor Kwesi Adofo-Mensah stated on the NFL scouting mix in February {that a} Jefferson commerce by no means crossed his thoughts — even when it could assist him commerce up for a quarterback within the draft.
The 2022 Offensive Participant of the 12 months, Jefferson entered this season averaging 98.3 receiving yards per sport — probably the most in NFL historical past for any profession span.
Jefferson, 25, set an NFL report for many receiving yards within the first three seasons of a profession (4,825) after which eclipsed 1,000 yards final season regardless of lacking seven video games — and components of two others — due to accidents. His 1,074 yards in 2023 have been probably the most ever by an NFL participant who performed 10 or fewer video games in a season.
