MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – OCTOBER 08: Justin Jefferson #18 of the Minnesota Vikings looks on prior to a game against the Kansas City Chiefs at U.S. Bank Stadium on October 08, 2023 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)
A shocking blockbuster trade proposal has the Minnesota Vikings beginning a full-scale rebuild by moving out their franchise star.

ESPN’s Aaron Schatz proposed a bold move for all 32 NFL teams heading into the offseason. In the Vikings’ spot, Schatz offered a hot take for the team to trade superstar wide receiver Justin Jefferson:

“He probably wants Kirk Cousins back. Cousins had one of his best half-seasons in 2023, but giving him another long-term deal at age 35 might not be the best decision for Minnesota’s future

So why not just go for a total reset? Trade Jefferson for a couple of high draft picks. Use one of them to draft his replacement, the same way the Vikings traded away Stefon Diggs and used the pick they got in return to draft Jefferson. Perhaps that pick can be used on a young quarterback, or to trade up for a better young quarterback.

Meanwhile, shaving Cousins and Jefferson off the team’s salary ledger will allow the Vikings to sign a number of free agents to improve other positions, building a team that’s ready to compete once they figure out their quarterback situation (presumably with a youngster in either 2024 or 2025).”

Jefferson is the best wide receiver in football, and there’s no indicator that Minnesota is actively shopping him. But if they do decide to endure a full-on rebuild, then it makes sense to trade Jefferson.

Minnesota would easily be looking at a return of two first-round picks for the three-time Pro Bowler. Of course, only time will tell if the Vikings make the bold decision to tear it all down and restart without Jefferson in the fold.