The landscape of NFL training camp holdouts has changed dramatically since the institution of the 2020 collective bargaining agreement (CBA). The current CBA imposed more rigorous financial penalties on players who decide to skip training. Players on non-rookie contracts face hefty fines of $50,000 per day for training camp absences, while those on rookie contracts incur a $40,000-per-day fine. These measures, undoubtedly tough, have meant that not attending training camp can be a costly decision.
Beyond daily fines, the CBA incorporates additional punitive measures. For instance, unrestricted free agents or first-round picks playing under their fifth-year option risk losing one week's base salary for each preseason game they miss. Unlike players on rookie contracts who might still find forgiveness or reduction for fines, their veteran counterparts don't have that luxury.
Recent High-Profile Holdouts
Despite these stringent rules, holdouts in the NFL remain a notable occurrence. Most recently, Nick Bosa managed to secure a remarkable five-year, $170 million extension right before the 2023 regular season began. Bosa's deal shattered records for non-quarterback contracts with $122.5 million in overall guarantees and $88 million fully guaranteed at signing.
Yet, even as Bosa celebrated his new deal, not all player negotiations concluded as swiftly. Chris Jones experienced a rare holdout that extended into the regular season. Jones amassed $2.25 million in mandatory fines for missing training camp and forfeited a $500,000 workout bonus. His 51-day holdout culminated in a modified contract that infused $5.5 million in new performance-related bonuses for the 2023 season.
Similarly, Zack Martin's holdout gleaned a favorable result. Martin managed a $9.35 million raise over the final two years of his contract, with previously unsecured 2024 base salary now fully guaranteed. This is an apparent indication that while holdouts are expensive, sometimes the rewards justify the risks.
Contract Disputes and Extensions
The offseason was also marked by several key players skipping mandatory minicamps due to contract issues. Brandon Aiyuk, Amari Cooper, CeeDee Lamb, and Haason Reddick were among those who abstained, facing fines up to $101,716 for a full three-day minicamp absence.
Despite the monetary penalties, the necessity of securing favorable contracts underpins these decisions. Justin Jefferson, for instance, succeeded in signing a four-year, $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings. Jefferson's deal establishes an impressive $110 million in overall guarantees, with $88.743 million fully guaranteed at signing, underscoring his value to the franchise.
Likewise, Penei Sewell further cemented his status with a four-year, $112 million deal with the Detroit Lions, setting a new benchmark for offensive linemen with $85 million in guarantees. This contract pushed the boundaries of what top-tier offensive linemen can earn, reshaping the market for their colleagues.
Stellar Performances
Amari Cooper and CeeDee Lamb both underscored their worth with exceptional performances. Cooper exceeded 1,000 receiving yards in consecutive seasons for the Browns, earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2023. Lamb's record-breaking season manifested through 135 catches, 1,749 yards, and 12 touchdowns, showcasing his elite status. However, the Cowboys might find themselves on the fence about making Lamb the NFL’s highest-paid non-quarterback given the financial implications.
Haason Reddick's exceptional play, evidenced by four straight seasons with double-digit sacks, led to his trade to the Jets for a conditional 2026 third-round pick, which has the potential of elevating to a second-round pick based on his performance.
The Impact of the 2020 CBA
The rigorous financial penalties of the 2020 CBA have undoubtedly introduced new challenges for players considering holdouts. The comprehensive financial losses underscore the severity of these decisions. Still, the opportunity for lucrative contract extensions, as seen with Bosa, Jefferson, and Sewell, reveals a landscape where the potential rewards might justify the high risks.
These examples encapsulate the evolving dynamics of NFL contract negotiations and player holdouts in the modern era. While the 2020 CBA has imposed stricter penalties, the quest for financial security and recognition continues to drive players in their negotiations with franchises.