NFL Stars Navigate Contract Disputes Ahead of New Season

As the NFL regular season approaches, several high-profile players remain absent from practice due to ongoing contract negotiations. With training camps underway, players can either hold out, staying away from camp until their financial concerns are addressed, or hold in, attending camp but refraining from participating in practices. Key players affected by these situations include Cincinnati Bengals edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward, Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin, and Dallas Cowboys edge rusher Micah Parsons.

One notable development includes James Cook, the Buffalo Bills running back, who transitioned from a hold-in to returning to practice after agreeing to a four-year contract extension worth $4.6 million. With the preseason in full swing, many are left wondering which players will resolve their contract disputes before the season officially begins.

Trey Hendrickson: Seeking Long-Term Security

Hendrickson, a four-time Pro Bowler, is currently in the final year of his contract, set to earn $16 million this season. After initially holding out, he shifted to a hold-in status on July 30, emphasizing his desire for a long-term deal. The Bengals have reportedly offered a pay increase, but discussions have stalled over guaranteed money. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, both sides have been in talks since Hendrickson reported to camp, but significant progress has yet to be made as he prepares for his ninth NFL season.

Cameron Heyward: Restructuring for Fair Compensation

Meanwhile, Cameron Heyward, 36, is looking to restructure a contract extension he signed just a year ago. The All-Pro defensive tackle is currently due $14.75 million this season, including a guaranteed roster bonus of $13.45 million. Heyward expressed a desire to adjust his contract to reflect his market value after a standout performance last season, hinting at a willingness to miss games if negotiations do not progress. He initiated talks about restructuring as far back as February and has since transitioned to a hold-in in response to the ongoing situation.

In addition, kicker Chris Boswell of the Steelers is reportedly seeking a new contract after his own impressive season. Although Boswell signed a four-year, $20 million deal in 2022, he is looking for adjustments in light of recent market changes. However, it is uncommon for the Steelers to renegotiate contracts with two years remaining.

Terry McLaurin: Stalemate with the Commanders

For Terry McLaurin, the situation with the Commanders remains stagnant as he seeks a contract extension. Having one year left on the three-year deal he signed in 2022, McLaurin initially missed the first four days of training camp before reporting on July 27. He was placed on the physically unable to perform list due to an ankle injury, which he sustained earlier in the year. Both the player and the team have remained firm in their demands, with McLaurin hoping to secure a deal similar to that of fellow 2019 draft class member DK Metcalf, who recently signed a contract worth $33 million per year.

Micah Parsons: Back Tightness and Trade Request

Lastly, Micah Parsons of the Dallas Cowboys is also holding in while seeking a trade. Despite expressing concerns over back tightness, Parsons has not made substantial progress in negotiations for an extension. The Cowboys’ owner and general manager Jerry Jones has made it clear that a trade will not happen, and discussions between the two parties have been minimal. The team may be prepared to enter the season with Parsons playing under the fifth-year option, with the potential of a franchise tag looming for the future.

As the countdown to the NFL season continues, the situations of these players remain uncertain. The outcomes of these negotiations will not only impact the players involved but could also have significant ramifications for their respective teams as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season.