The landscape of NFL training camp holdouts has undergone a remarkable transformation due to the stipulations introduced in the 2020 collective bargaining agreement (CBA). The agreement has resulted in more stringent financial penalties, fundamentally reshaping the dynamics between players and teams.
Stricter Penalties Under the 2020 CBA
One of the most significant changes under the 2020 CBA is the introduction of hefty fines for players who abstain from attending training camps. Any player not on a rookie contract faces a substantial fine of $50,000 per day for training camp absences. Even players on rookie contracts are not spared, facing $40,000-per-day fines for missing training camp.
Additionally, the agreement imposes a punitive measure that deducts 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, there is limited scope for leniency, as the current agreement only allows fine forgiveness or reduction for players still on rookie contracts.
Notable Holdouts and Contracts
In the backdrop of these hardline measures, a few high-profile cases have emerged. Nick Bosa managed to secure a landmark five-year, $170 million extension just before the 2023 regular season began. This deal set new records for non-quarterback contracts, guaranteeing $122.5 million in total and a stunning $88 million fully guaranteed at signing.
Meanwhile, Chris Jones undertook a rare holdout that extended into the regular season. His absence from training camp resulted in mandatory fines amounting to $2.25 million, compounded by the forfeiture of a $500,000 workout bonus. Jones concluded his 51-day holdout by negotiating a modified contract that added $5.5 million in new performance-based bonuses for the 2023 contract year.
Another significant development was Zack Martin securing a $9.35 million raise over the remaining two years of his contract. Furthermore, Martin's previously unsecured 2024 base salary has now been fully guaranteed, showcasing a successful renegotiation in the face of new financial deterrents.
Minicamp and Preseason Absences
Holdouts weren't limited to training camps alone, as Brandon Aiyuk, Amari Cooper, CeeDee Lamb, and Haason Reddick all skipped mandatory minicamps over contract disputes. It’s worth noting that the penalty for missing an entire three-day minicamp is $101,716, highlighting the serious financial implications for such absences.
Standout Performances and Achievements
Despite the turmoil, the NFL saw impressive individual performances. Justin Jefferson inked a four-year, $140 million extension averaging $35 million per year with the Minnesota Vikings. Jefferson's contract included $110 million in overall guarantees, with $88.743 million fully guaranteed at signing.
CeeDee Lamb also had a remarkable season, registering 135 catches for 1,749 yards and 12 touchdowns. However, despite his record-breaking season, the Cowboys may hesitate to make Lamb the NFL's highest-paid non-quarterback, given the intricate salary cap considerations and the evolving financial landscape.
Penei Sewell also made headlines by signing a four-year, $112 million deal with the Detroit Lions. His extension set a new record for offensive linemen, featuring $85 million in guarantees.
Haason Reddick was traded to the Jets for a conditional 2026 third-round pick, which could potentially elevate to a second-round pick based on performance. Reddick demonstrated consistent performance, marking his fourth straight season with double-digit sacks in 2023.
Amari Cooper, on his part, exceeded 1,000 receiving yards in consecutive seasons for the Browns and earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2023.
The NFL's landscape remains vibrant and unpredictable, with financial incentives, standout performances, and strategic negotiations continually altering the dynamics between players and franchises.