NFL training camp has officially started, and while the excitement for the upcoming season is building, several star players are absent from the practice field due to ongoing contract disputes. Here’s a look at some of the notable players who are currently holding out as they seek new deals.
Micah Parsons: A Contract Dispute with Jerry Jones
Micah Parsons, one of the top defensive players in the league, has been sitting out of training camp due to back tightness, but it’s also clear that he is holding out for a new contract. Parsons has recorded 52.5 sacks in his first four seasons, making him one of the league’s top defensive players. Despite his impressive stats and Defensive Player of the Year votes, a new deal hasn’t materialized yet. Parsons and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones have exchanged sharp comments, intensifying the contract standoff.
Terry McLaurin: Holding Out for a New Deal After a Career-Best Season
Wide receiver Terry McLaurin is entering the final year of his contract with the Washington Commanders and is seeking a new deal after a career-best season. McLaurin, who recently posted a career-high 13 touchdowns and his fifth-consecutive 1,000-yard season, is holding out despite having a three-year extension signed in 2022. At 30, McLaurin wants a bigger payday, and the timing is tough for the Commanders as they look to avoid a sophomore slump with quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Trey Hendrickson: Skipping Training Camp for a New Contract
Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson, a standout performer last season with 17.5 sacks, has not attended the Bengals’ offseason activities and is now holding out for a new contract. Hendrickson is in the final year of his deal, and although he earned First-team All-Pro honors last season, the Bengals have been silent on any potential contract negotiations. Hendrickson, who has been a major asset to the Bengals’ defense, is determined not to play under his current contract.
Shemar Stewart: A Draft Dispute with the Bengals
Shemar Stewart, the 17th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, is also missing from the Bengals’ training camp due to a contract dispute. The Bengals reportedly want to change the structure of their first-round rookie contracts, which has led to a standoff with Stewart. The situation has escalated into a war of words, and Stewart didn’t participate in the mandatory minicamp last month either. His absence signals a rocky start to his professional career.
Alex Anzalone: Disappointed with Detroit Lions Over New Deal
Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone is also holding out as he enters the final year of his $18.3 million deal. Anzalone, who has been with the Lions for the past four seasons, has been vocal about wanting a new deal. He expressed his disappointment with the team, stating that he wants to retire as a Lion, but is not happy with the lack of progress on a potential new contract.
With several key players holding out, these contract disputes are making waves as teams prepare for the upcoming NFL season.
