In a groundbreaking move, Justin Jefferson has become the NFL’s highest-paid non-quarterback, surpassing San Francisco 49ers’ Nick Bosa. The Minnesota Vikings have signed Jefferson to a monumental four-year, $140 million extension, averaging $35 million annually.

Jefferson’s contract eclipses Bosa’s five-year, $170 million deal, which had set the benchmark for non-quarterback contracts at $34 million per year. Not only does Jefferson’s deal set new wide receiver records for overall guarantees and fully guaranteed amounts at signing—with $110 million and $88.743 million respectively—but it also establishes the highest fully guaranteed figure ever for a non-quarterback.

This landmark extension is poised to influence the market significantly, particularly for players like CeeDee Lamb of the Dallas Cowboys. Lamb, who led the NFL in receptions last season, is eyeing a deal that could surpass Jefferson’s $35 million per year. His performance, including a historic 2023 season with 135 catches for 1,749 yards and 12 touchdowns, makes a strong case for a top-tier contract.

As the Cowboys consider Lamb’s future, they face the challenge of balancing his potential new deal with the forthcoming extension of edge rusher Micah Parsons. Meanwhile, other wide receivers like Ja’Marr Chase and Brandon Aiyuk are also eyeing new contracts, potentially following the trail blazed by Jefferson’s historic deal.

Jefferson’s unprecedented productivity, including an NFL-record 5,899 receiving yards through his first four seasons, sets a new standard for wide receivers and reshapes the financial landscape for the position in the NFL.