The Surprise Twist of Jordan Addison’s Legal Fallout
Jordan Addison’s legal situation stemming from a 2024 DUI arrest took a turn Thursday.
After Jordan Addison’s DUI plea, a surprise clause in his rookie deal could rock his world. Here’s what it actually means for him and the Vikings.
The dynamic Minnesota Vikings wide receiver pleaded guilty to a reduced charge and will now await a possible suspension from the NFL.
Along the way, a surprise development arose: the guaranteed money aspect of Addison’s rookie contract will vanish.
New Contractual Detail in Jordan Addison’s Legal Fallout
Addison, in theory, could be released pain-free for the Vikings.
Jordan Addison’s Guaranteed Money Vanishes
For starters, Addison’s legal team tweeted this Thursday, “Today, after careful consideration of the charges against him and all defenses, Jordan Addison decided to plead to a lesser included vehicular offense, commonly referred to as a ‘wet reckless.'”
“As a result, Mr. Addison will pay a standard fine and complete two online courses after which we expect that his probation will be terminated early in six months. Over the past year, he voluntarily participated in MADD events and programs and, after reflection, decided to enter this plea understanding the ramifications of this decision.”
The situation had lingered for over a year.
Attorney Tim Younger concluded, “He has kept the organization apprised throughout these legal proceedings, and will continue in his full commitment to being a valuable member of his team.”
Spotrac then delivered the mini-bombshell, “Vikings WR Jordan Addison stands to forfeit over $88,000 per game missed due to suspension, and the full guarantee on his 2 years, $4.6M remaining would void.”
Zero Room for Error Going Forward
Addison has basically used both of his chips. In 2023, Minnesota authorities cited him for a reckless driving misdemeanor, which he followed up last summer with the “wet reckless” ordeal in Los Angeles.
Hypothetically, according to Spotrac, the Vikings could waive Addison at any time without incurring a financial penalty. Yes — this means that Addison is on thin ice. Another notable infraction may prompt Minnesota to drop Addison, and he’d lose the remaining earnings on his rookie contract.
A Clean Summer So Far
July has been the host of Addison’s skullduggery, and 17 days through July 2025, the man has kept his nose clean. He also vowed to improve his behavior after the arrest last summer and has so far delivered.
Another arrest could force Minnesota’s hand — could the franchise really maintain employment for a habitual offender while keeping a wholesome locker room culture? That may prove tricky.
Addison must avoid legal run-ins for the next couple of seasons — or just, you know, forever — and his life will improve. Markedly.
Vikings Unlikely to Use Clause
The realism of the Vikings kicking Addison to the curb anytime soon is low. The team has already navigated the fallout of his past transgressions, and it wouldn’t cut ties with Addison now after he resolved the legal matter. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and head coach Kevin O’Connell have stuck by Addison every step of the way, so don’t expect a surprise release just because the situation is now easier for the team to navigate.
Generally speaking, most fans expect Addison to serve a three-game suspension from the NFL, which could hit as early as the start of the regular season on September 8th.
Janik Eckardt on Addison
Our own Janik Eckardt weighed in on Addison Thursday, “If the 23-year-old is out for the first three games, he would miss J.J. McCarthy’s first three NFL contests, and suddenly, Jalen Nailor and Tai Felton could be significant parts of the rotation.”
“Addison has been a deep-threat machine in Kevin O’Connell’s passing attack, catching 133 passes for 1,786 yards and 19 touchdowns in his two NFL seasons. The 23rd overall pick of the 2023 draft has been a human highlight reel, making contested catches even against bigger defenders look easy.”
Look for tight end T.J. Hockenson to experience an enhanced role if Addison is suspended.
Eckardt added, “He formed a connection with Kirk Cousins early in his career and even helped Josh Dobbs boost his stock. Last season, with Sam Darnold throwing bombs down the field, it was often Addison on the receiving end. The young receiver will be eligible for a contract extension next offseason.”
“Staying out of trouble will be key for him. We’ll learn more about the NFL’s action against the Vikings in the near future.”
As is, Addison is scheduled to be connected to the Vikings through the end of the 2027 campaign, assuming the organization exercises his fifth-year rookie option.
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