One NFL insider believes that a trade could be on the horizon this upcoming offseason involving superstar wide receiver Justin Jefferson. According to Adam Schefter, it would be surprising to see a trade that would send Jefferson to a new team, but it wouldn’t be at the same time. Ever since the Minnesota Vikings let former quarterback Sam Darnold hit the free agent market, the team has probably regretted the decision. In the second year, JJ McCarthy has been dealing with injury issues and hasn’t been able to find his groove in the Kevin O’Connell offense, and there have been talks that the team could draft or sign a new quarterback to bring in some competition. McCarthy is coming off a season-ending injury in his rookie year, and the Vikings had hoped that he would keep this team afloat, but Schefter believes a trade could happen to embrace the rebuild for Minnesota.
“They’re going to speak to him, I’m sure, at some point in time, and get some feedback and input on the player he would want. It’s hard to imagine they would trade Justin Jefferson, but then again, a year ago, I would’ve said it’s hard to imagine the Dallas Cowboys would trade Micah Parsons, and they did,” he said.
NFL Insider Sparks Massive Justin Jefferson Trade Talk – 4 Possible Dream Teams
The biggest thing for the superstar is patience, and even that could be wearing thin. Minnesota isn’t going to trade Jefferson, who just signed a monster contract in 2024 for $140 million, unless they’re forced to in a request that may lead to a possible holdout. After catching just two balls for four yards in his recent game against Seattle, it’s understandable to see the frustration. Here are the logical 2026 destinations if he departs.
Possible Next Teams
Los Angeles Chargers
While Jim Harbaugh is focused on an all-around running football team with a defensive trench, he must continue to put Justin Herbert in the right situation with exceptional pass-catchers. Veteran Keenan Allen is having himself a season this year, but he’s getting older and will soon need to find a crucial replacement. The good news is that Ladd McConkey has become a solid route-runner, but they must also find that receiver who could be a threat in deep passes.
Jefferson is a perfect candidate to hold those duties as a reliable star in Los Angeles, as the team has plenty of cap space to facilitate a trade this upcoming offseason if available.
Denver Broncos
Meanwhile, the Broncos could use another superstar to pair with Courtland Sutton. As long as head coach Sean Payton and quarterback Bo Nix are on the same page, Denver might be the place for Jefferson. Payton has the experience and philosophy to bring something out of Jefferson if given the right spotlight.
Carolina Panthers
The future is bright in Carolina as they might beat out the Buccaneers for the division. Rookie Tetairoa McMillan is on fire, to no surprise, coming out as a first-round pick, but Xavier Legette is still having his struggles. If the Panthers pick up Bryce Young’s fifth-year option, they should trade for Jefferson to give him a special weapon and re-sign running back Rico Dowdle to give them a well-rounded, talented offense.
Buffalo Bills
With the outlook of Keon Coleman, the Buffalo Bills will most likely draft or trade for a new receiver this offseason. Despite signing Brandin Cooks, the team is doing everything in its power to give Josh Allen several offensive weapons to work with. Ever since they traded Stefon Diggs a few offseasons ago, they have yet to find a superstar replacement. Jefferson may fill the void and boost this offense again.
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