The landscape of NFL training camp holdouts has seen significant evolution under the 2020 collective bargaining agreement (CBA). The adjustments have implemented more stringent financial penalties to discourage players from missing training camps, altering the dynamics between players and team management.
Stricter Financial Penalties
Under the provisions of the 2020 CBA, players not on rookie contracts face a hefty $50,000 fine for each day of training camp missed. Those on rookie contracts incur slightly lesser fines, at $40,000 per day. Beyond daily fines, there are additional punitive measures: unrestricted free agents or first-round picks in their fifth-year option who miss preseason games face losing one week’s base salary for each game missed.
This stringent framework explains why fines can accumulate to staggering figures. For instance, Chris Jones made headlines with his rare holdout extending into the regular season. Jones accrued mandatory fines amounting to $2.25 million for missing training camp and further forfeited a $500,000 workout bonus. However, Jones ultimately secured a modified contract, adding $5.5 million in new performance bonuses for the 2023 season, bringing an end to his 51-day holdout.
Flexibility for Rookie Contracts
Although the current agreement enforces strict penalties, it allows some flexibility for players on rookie contracts regarding fine forgiveness or reduction. This leniency does not extend to veteran players, emphasizing the league’s effort to maintain discipline while nurturing young talent.
Big Contract Extensions
The NFL offseason has also been marked by several significant contract extensions. Nick Bosa’s situation exemplifies this, as he secured a five-year, $170 million extension just before the 2023 regular season commenced. This deal set records for non-quarterback contracts, with Bosa receiving $122.5 million in overall guarantees and $88 million fully guaranteed at signing.
The Minnesota Vikings made waves by extending Justin Jefferson's contract by four years, ensuring he remains a cornerstone of their offense. Jefferson's extension, valued at $140 million, averages $35 million per year. The deal includes $110 million in overall guarantees, with $88.743 million fully guaranteed at signing, reflecting his tremendous impact on the field.
Penei Sewell also achieved a milestone with the Detroit Lions, signing a four-year, $112 million deal. His extension set a new benchmark for offensive linemen, boasting $85 million in guarantees.
Contract Negotiations and Raises
Contract negotiations weren’t limited to extensions alone. Zack Martin secured a significant win, obtaining a $9.35 million raise over the remaining two years of his contract. Moreover, his previously unsecured 2024 base salary is now fully guaranteed, reflecting his indispensable role on the team.
In contrast, some players opted to skip mandatory minicamps due to contract issues. Notable among them were Brandon Aiyuk, Amari Cooper, CeeDee Lamb, and Haason Reddick. The penalty for missing an entire three-day minicamp stands at $101,716, underscoring the high stakes involved in these negotiations.
Performance and Potential Hesitations
While players seek better terms, their immense on-field performances often justify the demands. CeeDee Lamb, for instance, enjoyed a record-breaking season with 135 catches for 1,749 yards and 12 touchdowns. Despite his stellar performance, the Cowboys may still be hesitant to make Lamb the NFL’s highest-paid non-quarterback, illustrating the calculated risks teams must consider.
Meanwhile, Amari Cooper has shown consistency, exceeding 1,000 receiving yards in consecutive seasons for the Browns and earning Pro Bowl selection in 2023. Similarly, Haason Reddick continued his impressive run with yet another double-digit sack season in 2023, leading to his trade to the Jets. The conditional trade involved a 2026 third-round pick that could elevate to a second-round pick based on performance.
As the NFL continues to adapt to evolving dynamics between players and management, the balancing act of maintaining discipline while rewarding talent remains at the forefront. The 2020 CBA has undoubtedly transformed the landscape, with financial penalties and lucrative extensions weaving an intricate tapestry of professional football's business side.