With NFL training camps underway, several players are sitting out, primarily due to ongoing contract negotiations. This common practice arises as athletes aim to avoid injury while seeking lucrative deals. Historical precedents exist for both success and failure in this strategy; famed cornerback Darrelle Revis benefited from holding out, while other players like Le’Veon Bell faced significant setbacks. As the season approaches, various players find themselves away from the field, hoping for career-enhancing contracts.
Micah Parsons is notably missing practices, citing back tightness, but has previously mentioned intentions to hold out without a new deal. With an impressive 52.5 career sacks in just four seasons, Parsons has demonstrated his value, finishing in the top three for Defensive Player of the Year voting repeatedly. Tensions have arisen between Parsons and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones as negotiations drag on, highlighting the challenges of aligning player expectations with management decisions.
Terry McLaurin’s situation is equally complex. He is currently holding out of training camp in pursuit of a new contract, despite having signed a three-year extension worth over $68 million before the 2022 season. Though he is coming off a career-best season with 13 touchdowns and towering over 1,000 receiving yards for the fifth consecutive year, McLaurin’s timing for the holdout raises concerns for the Washington Commanders as they seek stability with young quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Another player in a tough position is Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson. After a standout season leading the league with 17.5 sacks and securing First-team All-Pro status, Hendrickson has also opted to skip offseason activities and is currently refusing to play under his existing contract. With his deal set to expire after this season, the silence from the Bengals regarding a new contract leaves Hendrickson’s future uncertain, especially given the significant contributions he has made since joining the team.
In a related development, rookie edge rusher Shemar Stewart, drafted 17th overall, is embroiled in a contract dispute. The Bengals are reportedly attempting to modify their approach to first-round rookie contracts, causing friction that has affected Stewart’s participation in team activities. Navigating contract negotiations successfully can be challenging for rookies, and this rocky start could hinder Stewart’s development as a professional player.
Lastly, Alex Anzalone, the linebacker for the Detroit Lions, finds himself in a similar predicament as he enters the final year of his $18.3 million deal. Anzalone has expressed a desire to retire as a Lion and voiced disappointment over the lack of a new contract. As negotiations continue for these players navigating complex contract situations, the landscape of the NFL remains tense, with the start of the new season looming.
