Dec 21, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jarius Wright (17) makes the diving touchdown catch as Miami Dolphins cornerback Brent Grimes (21) defends in the second half of the game at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports
The Minnesota Vikings rewarded Jarius Wright with a four-year, $14.8 million contract extension last week, as the fourth-year receiver relishes another chance to prove his doubters wrong.
"Growing up I was always told, 'You're too small. You couldn't do it,'" Wright said, per Mark Craig of the Star-Tribune. "For me to prove everybody wrong and for me to help everybody that was with me on my side, I just appreciate everybody who stood behind me."
Wright, who is only 5-foot-10 and 181 pounds, was a fourth-round draft pick out of Arkansas in 2012. Although he has yet to experience a breakout season, the former Razorback has steadily improved since entering the NFL. Last season, he set career highs for receptions (42) and yards (588).
"Jarius has been a key member of our offense since we drafted him," Vikings General Manager Rick Spielman said, via the Star-Tribune. "His commitment to this team, hard work and leadership in the WR room are several of the intangibles that he brings. … This extension stays true to our philosophy of drafting young talent, developing them in our system and rewarding their success."
Despite the new deal, Wright still has to fight for targets. The Vikings traded for Mike Wallace this offseason, and Charles Johnson is a rising option opposite him. Potential draft bust Cordarrelle Patterson is facing a make-or-break season, and fifth-round rookie Stefon Diggs is ready to scarf up whatever reps are left over.
(h/t Star-Tribune)
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