The landscape of NFL training camp holdouts has undergone a significant transformation under the 2020 collective bargaining agreement (CBA). This agreement introduced more stringent financial penalties aimed at deterring player absences, fundamentally changing how holdouts are handled by both players and teams.
New Penalties Under the 2020 CBA
The 2020 CBA mandates that teams must fine players who are not under rookie contracts $50,000 per day for each day they miss during training camp. Players on rookie contracts face a slightly reduced fine of $40,000 per day for their absences. These fines are now automatically applied, providing teams with less flexibility in handling holdouts. There is also a punitive measure entailing the forfeiture of one week's base salary for each preseason game missed by unrestricted free agents or first-round picks in their fifth-year option.
Interestingly, the current agreement allows fine forgiveness or reduction only for players still on rookie contracts. This nuance adds an extra layer of complexity, as teams and players navigate the repercussions of holding out.
High-Profile Holdouts and Resolutions
Nick Bosa set a new benchmark for non-quarterback contracts just before the 2023 regular season with his five-year, $170 million extension. Bosa's contract includes $122.5 million in overall guarantees and $88 million fully guaranteed at signing, setting records and reaffirming his value to the team.
Chris Jones, in contrast, had a rare holdout that extended into the regular season. Missing training camp resulted in mandatory fines totaling $2.25 million, and Jones also forfeited a $500,000 workout bonus. He eventually ended his 51-day holdout with a modified contract that added $5.5 million in new performance bonuses for the 2023 season, reflecting a somewhat conciliatory resolution between player and team.
Guard Zack Martin also secured a favorable outcome, achieving a $9.35 million raise over the remaining two years of his contract. Additionally, his previously unsecured 2024 base salary is now fully guaranteed, providing Martin with financial security and rewarding his performance on the field.
Minicamp Absentees and Consequences
Several players, including Brandon Aiyuk, Amari Cooper, CeeDee Lamb, and Haason Reddick, skipped mandatory minicamps due to contract disputes. The penalty for missing the entire three-day minicamp amounts to $101,716, underlining the increased financial stakes for players considering such actions.
Noteworthy Contracts and Extensions
Wide receiver Justin Jefferson secured a substantial four-year, $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings, averaging $35 million per year. His deal includes $110 million in overall guarantees, with $88.743 million fully guaranteed at signing. This contract underscores Jefferson's pivotal role within the Vikings' offense and the team's commitment to retaining elite talent.
CeeDee Lamb also distinguished himself with a record-breaking season, amassing 135 catches for 1,749 yards and 12 touchdowns. Despite this, the Cowboys may hesitate to make Lamb the NFL's highest-paid non-quarterback, possibly reflecting the financial balancing act teams must perform under the current CBA.
Offensive lineman Penei Sewell made headlines with a four-year, $112 million deal with the Detroit Lions, setting a new financial standard for his position with $85 million in guarantees. Sewell’s extension highlights the increasing valuation of high-performing linemen in the league.
Trades and Performance Highlights
Haason Reddick was traded to the New York Jets for a conditional 2026 third-round pick, which could become a second-round pick based on Reddick's performance. Reddick's value is underscored by his consistent on-field production, totaling double-digit sacks for the fourth consecutive season in 2023. This trade reflects a strategic move by the Jets, banking on Reddick’s continued excellence.
Amari Cooper also achieved notable success, exceeding 1,000 receiving yards in consecutive seasons for the Cleveland Browns and earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2023. Cooper’s consistent performances solidify his reputation as a top-tier receiver in the league.
The evolving landscape of NFL contracts and holdouts under the 2020 CBA clearly places significant financial pressure on players while simultaneously ensuring that teams can retain and reward their key performers. As the dynamics between player negotiations and team management continue to evolve, these developments provide a compelling glimpse into the high-stakes world of professional football.