The Minnesota Vikings are throwing cold water on rumors that they could trade Justin Jefferson.

"That is not something that has ever crossed my mind," Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah said.

Kevin O'Connell was also asked about potentially trading away his best player, a possibility he railed against. 

"I can tell you we have no intent to trade Justin Jefferson," O'Connell said. "We have had zero discussions, dialogue about that either internally, externally, on this planet or another planet. I feel very strongly that Justin is best in his position in football. Any time you're trying to reset the receiver market -- we know who he is, we know what Justin's earned through his first four years in this league -- you know how hard it is. ... It was never gonna be something that was just be easy to get done, but the intent was there. The intent is still stronger than ever to get something done with Justin."

Justin Jefferson wants to know the Minnesota Vikings' plans at quarterback before he commits to a long-term deal, according to a report.

Jefferson has been an advocate for the team keeping Kirk Cousins, who is set to become a free agent.

Cousins was playing some of the best football of his career this past season before suffering a season-ending injury in Week 8. 

If Kirk Cousins lands elsewhere, the Minnesota Vikings could turn to someone like Sam Darnold in free agency, according to a report.

The report labeled Minnesota's likely quarterback target as a "more economical veteran."

Darnold, a former No. 3 overall pick, played minimally as Brock Purdy's backup with the San Francisco 49ers.