“He’s not just a champion… he’s a true king!” Those were the words that sent shockwaves through the NFL community after PepsiCo CEO Ramon Laguarta made an extraordinary announcement just hours following Justin Jefferson’s defeat on Thursday Night Football. In a move that no one saw coming, Laguarta revealed that he would sell 15% of PepsiCo’s shares to Jefferson — a transaction worth millions of dollars, officially making the Minnesota Vikings star one of the most powerful player-investors in American sports history.
The revelation came during a private post-game event in Minneapolis, where Jefferson and the Vikings gathered to regroup after their narrow loss. The atmosphere was somber, but that changed instantly when Laguarta took the stage, his voice filled with pride and emotion. “Justin Jefferson,” he began, “is not just an athlete. He is a symbol of determination, of leadership, and of what it means to never stop believing — even in defeat. For that reason, I’ve decided to make him a part of our family, a partner in the PepsiCo legacy.”
The crowd fell silent. Players, coaches, and executives stared in disbelief as the announcement sank in. The deal means Jefferson will become a 15% shareholder, with influence in marketing, community engagement, and PepsiCo’s growing sports partnerships. It is a monumental gesture — one that merges the world of business and sports in a way rarely seen before.
Reports say Laguarta had been following Jefferson’s journey for years. Known for his humility, charisma, and relentless work ethic, Jefferson had become more than just a football player — he was a brand, a voice, and an inspiration to millions. Sources close to Laguarta revealed that this partnership had been quietly in discussion for months, but the CEO wanted the announcement to come at a moment that reflected Jefferson’s resilience rather than his victories.
When Jefferson took the microphone, his voice cracked with emotion. He stood still for a few seconds, visibly overwhelmed, before simply saying, “I don’t even have words… thank you for believing in me.” The room erupted in applause — long, loud, and heartfelt. Laguarta, too, was seen wiping away tears, visibly moved by the 26-year-old’s humility.
To commemorate the event, Laguarta also announced that PepsiCo would sponsor a “Vikings Unity Championship”, an internal team competition celebrating leadership, community, and teamwork — values Jefferson embodies. The company also pledged to invest in youth football programs across Minnesota in Jefferson’s name, aiming to inspire the next generation of athletes.
Social media exploded within minutes. Fans flooded Twitter and Instagram with admiration, calling the gesture “historic” and “the ultimate sign of respect.” Prominent NFL analysts hailed the move as a new chapter in athlete empowerment, noting that Jefferson’s role as a shareholder could inspire similar collaborations between corporations and athletes.
Even NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell weighed in, stating, “What Justin Jefferson and PepsiCo have done is revolutionary. It’s not just about business — it’s about legacy.”
As for Jefferson, he has chosen to remain humble despite the magnitude of the moment. “This isn’t just about me,” he later told reporters. “It’s about showing that hard work, respect, and staying true to yourself can open doors you never imagined.”
From star receiver to corporate shareholder, Justin Jefferson’s story is redefining what it means to be an athlete in the modern era. And as Ramon Laguarta said that night, “He’s not just a champion… he’s a true king.”
