As rookies are set to report to camp this week, the Vikings have now signed their first selection from the 2020 NFL Draft.
Minnesota wide receiver Justin Jefferson’s deal is a four-year, $13.12 million contract with a $7.1 million signing bonus, according to Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle
Jefferson is coming off a National Championship season with LSU, where he caught 111 passes for 1,540 yards and 18 touchdowns. The former college star brings some great speed, solid hands and smooth route running to Minnesota.
The Vikings took Jefferson with their 22nd overall pick, hoping to replace wide receiver Stefon Diggs, the receiver they traded away to get that pick.
Although Jefferson played the majority of his snaps from the slot in 2019, his film from 2018 shows that he has the capability to play outside as well. It’s probable that Gary Kubiak will mix it up frequently between both Thielen and Jefferson playing in the slot.
Without Diggs, the Vikings are going to look a lot different in 2020. Diggs was a great route runner and one of the stars of the Minneapolis Miracle. The Vikings still seem to have a bright future at the receiving position, though.
Earlier this offseason, the Vikings announced that they signed quarterback Nate Stanley to his rookie deal.