The landscape of NFL training camp holdouts has seen a transformation in recent years, largely due to stringent measures introduced under the 2020 collective bargaining agreement (CBA). The revised CBA has brought in tougher financial penalties for players who skip out on attending, reshaping the dynamics between players and teams during the offseason.
Significant Financial Penalties
According to the 2020 CBA, teams are now mandated to fine players who aren't on rookie contracts $50,000 per day for missing time during training camp. For those on rookie contracts, the fine stands at $40,000 per day. The CBA also imposes a punitive measure of one week's base salary for each preseason game missed by unrestricted free agents or first-round picks playing under their fifth-year option. However, fine forgiveness or reduction is only permitted for players still on rookie contracts.
Notable Holdouts and Contract Extensions
Nick Bosa, an exceptional talent on the field, secured a five-year, $170 million extension before the start of the 2023 regular season. This deal was a milestone for non-quarterback contracts, setting records with $122.5 million in overall guarantees and $88 million fully guaranteed at signing. Bosa’s contract underscores the lucrative rewards that can come from reaching an agreement before a prolonged holdout.
On the other side of the spectrum, Chris Jones experienced a rare holdout that extended into the regular season. His decision to hold out resulted in accumulating $2.25 million in mandatory fines for missing training camp and forfeiting a $500,000 workout bonus. Eventually, Jones ended his 51-day holdout with a modified contract that added $5.5 million in new performance bonuses for the 2023 contract year.
Similarly, Zack Martin negotiated a significant adjustment to his contract, securing a raise of $9.35 million over the remaining two years. His previously unsecured 2024 base salary is now fully guaranteed, illustrating the potential benefits of holding out under the right circumstances.
Mini-Camp Holdouts
Contract issues have also led several players to skip mandatory minicamps. This year's notable absentees included Brandon Aiyuk, Amari Cooper, CeeDee Lamb, and Haason Reddick. The penalty for missing an entire three-day minicamp amounts to $101,716, which serves as a substantial deterrent yet does not entirely eliminate the practice.
High-Stakes Contract Negotiations
Justin Jefferson, a standout receiver, recently inked a four-year, $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings, averaging $35 million per year. Jefferson's contract includes $110 million in overall guarantees and $88.743 million fully guaranteed at signing, highlighting both his value to the team and the increasing financial stakes in contract negotiations.
CeeDee Lamb, who had a record-breaking season with 135 catches for 1,749 yards and 12 touchdowns, poses a challenging case for the Dallas Cowboys. Despite his standout performance, the Cowboys may hesitate to make Lamb the NFL’s highest-paid non-quarterback, reflecting the delicate balance teams must strike between rewarding star players and managing salary cap constraints.
Penei Sewell also made headlines by securing a four-year, $112 million deal with the Detroit Lions. This extension set a new benchmark for offensive linemen, with $85 million in guarantees, further illustrating the evolving market for elite players across different positions.
Noteworthy Performances and Trade Movements
Haason Reddick's tenure with his previous team ended after being traded to the Jets for a conditional 2026 third-round pick, which could elevate to a second-round pick based on his performance. Reddick has consistently proven his worth on the field, recording his fourth straight season with double-digit sacks in 2023.
Amari Cooper, another high-profile player, has exceeded 1,000 receiving yards in consecutive seasons for the Browns and earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2023. His consistent performance reaffirms his position as a top-tier receiver in the NFL.
The Evolving Dynamics
The stringent penalties and substantial contracts underline the evolving dynamics of the NFL offseason. The 2020 CBA has undoubtedly made an impact, steering the nature of holdouts and negotiations towards a more structured and high-stakes environment. As teams and players continue to navigate these waters, the ongoing developments promise to offer a compelling narrative for football enthusiasts everywhere.