The landscape of NFL training camp holdouts has evolved significantly under the 2020 collective bargaining agreement (CBA). This new framework has introduced stricter financial penalties, fundamentally altering how players and teams navigate contract disputes and preseason preparations.
Financial Penalties Under the 2020 CBA
Under the 2020 CBA, the consequences for missing training camp are severe. For players not on rookie contracts, the fine is $50,000 per day of absence. For those still on their rookie deals, the penalty is $40,000 per day. These penalties are mandatory, leaving teams with little room for leniency.
Another serious penalty is levied on unrestricted free agents or first-round picks playing under their fifth-year option. These players face a punitive measure of one week's base salary for each preseason game they skip. Notably, the current agreement only permits fine forgiveness or reduction for players still on rookie contracts, adding another layer of complexity to contract negotiations.
High-Profile Holdouts and Resolutions
Nick Bosa's contract saga exemplifies the high stakes involved. Bosa secured a five-year, $170 million extension just before the 2023 regular season, making headlines with $122.5 million in overall guarantees and $88 million fully guaranteed at signing. His deal set new records for non-quarterback contracts, highlighting the lucrative rewards for elite talent.
Meanwhile, Chris Jones experienced a more contentious holdout, extending into the regular season—a rare occurrence in today's NFL. Jones accumulated $2.25 million in mandatory fines for missing training camp and forfeited a $500,000 workout bonus. His 51-day holdout ended with a modified contract that added $5.5 million in new performance bonuses for the 2023 season, showing that persistence in contract disputes can still yield positive outcomes.
Zack Martin also managed to renegotiate his contract successfully, securing a $9.35 million raise over the remaining two years of his deal. Martin's previously unsecured 2024 base salary is now fully guaranteed, demonstrating that strategic holdouts can lead to more favorable contract terms.
Minicamp Absentees and Record-Setting Extensions
This offseason saw several key players skip mandatory minicamps due to contract issues, including Brandon Aiyuk, Amari Cooper, CeeDee Lamb, and Haason Reddick. The penalty for missing the entire three-day minicamp stands at $101,716, a significant amount but potentially a worthwhile sacrifice for players seeking new deals.
Justin Jefferson's contract extension was one of the standout deals of the year. The wide receiver signed a four-year, $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings, averaging $35 million per year. His extension included $110 million in overall guarantees and $88.743 million fully guaranteed at signing, marking another substantial commitment to a young star.
CeeDee Lamb had a record-breaking season, with 135 catches for 1,749 yards and 12 touchdowns. Despite his impressive performance, the Cowboys may hesitate to make Lamb the NFL's highest-paid non-quarterback, illustrating the financial balancing act teams often face.
Penei Sewell set a new standard for offensive linemen with his four-year, $112 million deal with the Detroit Lions, including $85 million in guarantees. This deal underscores the high value placed on protecting star quarterbacks and maintaining strong offensive lines.
Trades and Player Performance
Haason Reddick's move to the Jets for a conditional 2026 third-round pick, which could elevate to a second-round pick based on performance, is another example of strategic roster adjustments. Reddick had his fourth straight season with double-digit sacks in 2023, demonstrating his consistent impact on the field.
Amari Cooper continued to thrive, exceeding 1,000 receiving yards in consecutive seasons for the Browns and earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2023. Cooper's achievements highlight the value of experienced and productive wide receivers in the NFL.
As the league continues to evolve under the new CBA, the financial and strategic decisions made by players and teams will remain a focal point. The high stakes and significant rewards involved ensure that contract negotiations and holdouts will continue to be key elements of the NFL's offseason drama.