Former LSU star could be on the NFL trade market

Recent developments have thrown a spotlight on former LSU star Justin Jefferson, who could find himself on the NFL trade market. This shift follows an injury to rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who will require season-ending surgery to repair a meniscus tear. With McCarthy out, veteran Sam Darnold is stepping in as the Minnesota Vikings’ starting quarterback for the remainder of the 2024 season.

The impact of McCarthy’s injury is significant. The Vikings were initially keen to evaluate McCarthy’s performance after a promising start in training camp. However, with Darnold now in charge and the team’s playoff prospects looking slim, the Vikings might pivot to focus on building for the future. This change in strategy could make Jefferson, a standout wide receiver, a prime candidate for trade discussions.

Justin Jefferson, who has been a standout performer for the Vikings, had a remarkable 2023 season despite some missed games. He finished 19th in the NFL for receiving yards with 1,074 and made a memorable catch against the Buffalo Bills, now considered one of the greatest in NFL history. Jefferson’s achievements extend beyond last season; he set an NFL record for the most career games with at least 150 receiving yards in the first four years of his career. He also ranks among the top receivers in Vikings history with 5,899 yards and 30 touchdowns.

Jefferson’s journey from a three-star high school recruit to a key player on LSU’s 2019 National Championship team and now a leading receiver for the Vikings is impressive. At just 25 years old, his potential for growth remains substantial. Given his recent $140 million contract extension and his impressive track record, the decision to trade him would be complex. However, if the Vikings believe their 2024 season is beyond saving due to McCarthy’s injury, trading Jefferson could help them manage their salary cap and set up for a more promising 2025 season.

As the Vikings reassess their plans, the possibility of trading Justin Jefferson becomes a significant topic of discussion. His potential availability would undoubtedly draw interest from teams looking to make a strong push for the playoffs or the Super Bowl.