The Minnesota Vikings and star wide receiver Justin Jefferson are facing delays in finalizing a long-term contract extension, a development that might push negotiations past the expected deadline of July 31. This information comes from ESPN’s Dan Graziano, who highlights a specific signing bonus policy of the Vikings as a possible reason for the holdup.

According to Graziano, the Vikings have a policy regarding signing bonuses that makes July 31 a crucial date, suggesting the team might prefer to wait until after this date to finalize any extension. This strategy aligns with past negotiations involving high-profile players, potentially indicating a structured approach by the Vikings to manage their cap space effectively.

Jefferson’s representation might also play a role in the delayed negotiations. His agent, Brian Ayrault, successfully negotiated top-tier contracts for notable players like Joe Burrow and Nick Bosa last year. Both contracts were completed close to the start of the regular season, setting a precedent that might influence the timing of Jefferson’s deal. Burrow and Bosa set records with their contracts, becoming the highest-paid player and the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league, respectively.

As the Vikings navigate this complex negotiation, there are concerns about Jefferson’s participation in upcoming team activities. The mandatory minicamp is scheduled for June 4-6, and with training camp beginning in late July, the question remains whether Jefferson will attend these sessions without a new contract. A holdout during training camp remains a possibility if an agreement is not reached, which could impact the team’s preparations for the upcoming season.

The Vikings and their fans are eagerly anticipating a resolution that will secure Jefferson’s presence on the team for the long term. His performance is crucial to the team’s success, and securing his contract would be a significant boost as they head into the new season. The situation remains fluid, with all parties likely working behind the scenes to find common ground before the critical dates of the NFL calendar.