The landscape of NFL training camp holdouts has undergone a significant transformation, particularly under the 2020 collective bargaining agreement (CBA). This agreement introduced stringent financial penalties aimed at dissuading players from abstaining from attendance, a measure designed to ensure teams can prepare effectively for the season ahead.
Stricter Penalties Under the 2020 CBA
One of the most impactful changes under the 2020 CBA is the financial penalties imposed on players who miss training camps. Players not on rookie contracts face a hefty fine of $50,000 per day for each day they are absent. For those on rookie contracts, the fine is slightly lower but still substantial at $40,000 per day. There is also a punitive measure in place for unrestricted free agents or first-round picks playing under their fifth-year option, amounting to one week's base salary for each preseason game missed.
Adding to the severity of these penalties, the current agreement permits fine forgiveness or reduction only for players still on rookie contracts. This regulatory change underscores the NFL's commitment to maintaining discipline and ensuring participation throughout the critical preseason period.
High-Stakes Holdouts and Their Resolutions
Among the notable holdouts was Nick Bosa, who secured a massive five-year, $170 million extension just before the 2023 regular season commenced. Bosa's deal set records for non-quarterback contracts with $122.5 million in overall guarantees and a striking $88 million fully guaranteed at the signing.
Meanwhile, Chris Jones had a rare holdout that extended into the regular season, accumulating $2.25 million in mandatory fines and forfeiting a $500,000 workout bonus. Jones eventually ended his 51-day holdout with a modified contract that added $5.5 million in new performance bonuses for the 2023 contract year.
Zack Martin's Contract Adjustment
Zack Martin's holdout resulted in notable financial gains, with the veteran securing a $9.35 million raise over the remaining two years of his contract. Additionally, Martin's previously unsecured 2024 base salary is now fully guaranteed, reflecting a significant win for the player.
Contract Issues Lead to Minicamp Skips
Several players, including Brandon Aiyuk, Amari Cooper, CeeDee Lamb, and Haason Reddick, skipped mandatory minicamps over contract disputes. According to the CBA, the penalty for missing an entire three-day minicamp is $101,716, an amount that underscores the financial consequences of such decisions.
New Deals for Top Performers
Justin Jefferson shined with his new four-year, $140 million extension averaging $35 million per year with the Minnesota Vikings. The extension includes $110 million in overall guarantees and $88.743 million fully guaranteed at signing, making Jefferson one of the highest-paid receivers in the league.
CeeDee Lamb also had a record-breaking season, boasting 135 catches for 1,749 yards and 12 touchdowns. Despite his achievements, the Dallas Cowboys might be hesitant to make him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, illustrating the delicate balance teams must maintain between rewarding talent and managing payroll.
In a significant deal for offensive linemen, Penei Sewell signed a four-year, $112 million contract with the Detroit Lions. Sewell's extension set a new benchmark with $85 million in guarantees, reinforcing his status as a cornerstone of the Lions' offensive line.
Haason Reddick's Trade and Stellar Performance
Haason Reddick, traded to the Jets for a conditional 2026 third-round pick that could elevate to a second-round pick based on performance, continued his impressive form with his fourth straight season of double-digit sacks in 2023. Such performances undoubtedly strengthened his market value and justified the Jets' investment.
Amari Cooper also demonstrated consistent high-level performance, exceeding 1,000 receiving yards in consecutive seasons for the Browns and earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2023. These milestones reflect Cooper's vital role in the Browns' offensive strategy.
The NFL's new CBA has certainly reshaped the dynamics of player holdouts and contract negotiations, embedding a rigorous framework that players and teams must navigate. These changes reflect the evolving nature of the league and the ongoing quest to balance competitive integrity with fair compensation for its star athletes.