What's Happening?
NFL players who are holding in during training camps are facing increasing pressure to either accept the deals offered or return to practice. This situation arises when players report to camp but refuse to practice until they secure new contracts. Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury highlighted this issue, noting that players need to get to work eventually. Teams have generally tolerated this approach, but it has not extended to players refusing to play during regular-season games. Commanders receiver Terry McLaurin recently exited the Physically Unable to Perform list, indicating readiness for Week 1, regardless of contract status. Other players currently holding in include Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons, Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson, and Steelers defensive lineman Cameron Heyward.
Why It's Important?
The hold-in strategy reflects a growing trend among NFL players to leverage their presence at training camps to negotiate better contracts. This approach can impact team dynamics and player readiness for the season. Teams may face challenges in maintaining cohesion and performance if key players are absent from practice. The situation also highlights the ongoing negotiations between players and teams, which can affect salary cap management and team planning. Players risk fines or suspensions for conduct detrimental to the team if they continue to hold in, adding pressure to resolve contract disputes swiftly.
What's Next?
As the NFL season approaches, players holding in must decide whether to accept current contract offers or risk penalties. Teams may need to negotiate more aggressively to ensure player participation in games. The Cowboys, facing a tight timeline, may push Parsons to return to practice to avoid injury risks and ensure readiness for Week 1. The resolution of these hold-ins could set precedents for future contract negotiations and player strategies in the league.
