Posted on Jul 10
Justin Jefferson understands Kirk Cousins' decision to sign with the Falcons, says "It's a business.
u/alex •
MINNEAPOLIS, MN -- The Minnesota Vikings will be moving forward with a new quarterback duo for the 2024 season, as wide receiver Justin Jefferson's preferred signal-caller, Kirk Cousins, has signed with the Atlanta Falcons. Jefferson, who recently received a lucrative contract extension from the Vikings, expressed his understanding and acceptance of Cousins' decision, highlighting the business nature of the NFL.
After four seasons in Minnesota, during which he started 54 of Jefferson's first 60 NFL games, Cousins decided to pursue a new opportunity with the Atlanta Falcons. This move came as a surprise to many, including Jefferson, who had publicly expressed his desire for Cousins to remain with the Vikings. However, Jefferson made it clear that he harbors no ill feelings towards his former quarterback.
The Vikings organization swiftly regrouped and made significant changes to their quarterback roster. They acquired veteran Sam Darnold and rookie J.J. McCarthy to helm their offense for the upcoming season. With this new quarterback tandem, the Vikings aim to forge a fresh path forward and reestablish their offensive identity.
Despite his initial preference for Cousins as his quarterback, Jefferson displayed professionalism and understanding in response to Cousins' departure. During a recent interview, he expressed his lack of animosity towards Cousins, recognizing that the decisions made in the NFL are often driven by personal and financial considerations.
"I'm not mad at him at all for that," Jefferson said, referring to Cousins' decision to sign with the Falcons. "I just knew that everything just wasn't the way he wanted it to be here, especially just with having to pay me and having to pay so many other different guys."
Jefferson's mature and pragmatic outlook shines through as he acknowledges the business aspects of the NFL. He understands that players must prioritize their own interests and those of their families.
"It doesn't really matter what quarterback it is in my eyes," Jefferson added. "I'm always going to try to make the best of the opportunity."
The Minnesota Vikings engaged in extensive negotiations with Cousins in an effort to retain him as their quarterback. However, they were unable to match the offer presented by the Atlanta Falcons, leading to Cousins' departure. Despite their best efforts, the Vikings ultimately recognized the financial limitations they faced in retaining Cousins while also addressing other contractual obligations within the team.
In a separate development, the Vikings front office demonstrated their commitment to Justin Jefferson by awarding him a four-year, $140 million contract extension. This makes Jefferson the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, underscoring the team's appreciation for his exceptional talent and on-field contributions.
With the departure of Kirk Cousins and the arrival of Sam Darnold and J.J. McCarthy, the Minnesota Vikings enter the 2024 season with a renewed sense of purpose. Justin Jefferson, despite his initial preference for Cousins, has embraced the reality of the NFL's business dynamics. His professionalism and commitment to making the most of any opportunity will undoubtedly contribute to the Vikings' continued success on the field.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on the Vikings' revamped quarterback room and how they fare in orchestrating the offense. While change can be challenging, it also presents an opportunity for growth and adaptation. Fans and analysts alike eagerly await the start of the season to witness the Vikings' new era unfold, with Justin Jefferson as a focal point of their offensive aspirations.