The 2020 collective bargaining agreement (CBA) has significantly changed the dynamics of NFL contract negotiations, giving rise to the "hold-in" tactic – a strategic maneuver employed by players to express dissatisfaction with their contracts without incurring hefty fines. The evolution of these negotiations and subsequent player strategies have reshaped the landscape for teams and players alike.
Traditionally, players who were unhappy with their contracts would simply hold out, opting not to report to training camp in protest. However, the current CBA mandates stringent penalties for such actions. Players beyond their rookie contracts face a fine of $50,000 per day for missing training camp, while rookies are fined $40,000 per day. Moreover, additional penalties apply for missing preseason games, targeting both unrestricted free agents and first-round picks playing under their fifth-year options. Each missed preseason game results in a fine equal to a week's base salary, a substantial financial burden for players choosing this path.
Notably, the current CBA allows for fine forgiveness, albeit exclusively for those on rookie contracts. This nuance has led to the adoption of the "hold-in" tactic, where players attend training camp but refrain from participating in essential activities, thereby avoiding fines while still signaling their contract dissatisfaction.
The "Hold-In" Tactic in Action
In 2021, T.J. Watt employed the "hold-in" strategy, ultimately securing his status as the NFL's highest-paid non-quarterback shortly before the regular-season opener. This move highlighted the efficacy of the tactic, encouraging other players to follow suit.
More recently, Brandon Aiyuk and Ja'Marr Chase have navigated their contract disputes with varying approaches. Aiyuk, who will earn a fully guaranteed $14.124 million in 2024 on a fifth-year option, skipped offseason workouts and faced a $101,716 fine for missing the mandatory June minicamp. He subsequently requested a trade shortly before the start of training camp, demonstrating his dissatisfaction with his current contract situation.
Conversely, Chase, whose fifth-year option of $21.816 million in 2025 is fully guaranteed, chose not to participate in team drills beyond walkthroughs during June's mandatory minicamp. He has hinted that he might not play without a new contract. The Cincinnati Bengals, understanding Chase's pivotal role alongside Joe Burrow, might face a looming contract impasse. Bengals president Mike Brown acknowledged the significance of Chase, stating, "He's a key player next to Joe [Burrow]. He's our next one. He knows that. We know it."
Contract Implications and Risks
The repercussions for players escalating their hold-in tactics are severe. According to the CBA and the NFL Player Contract, the maximum penalty for breaching Paragraph 2 of the contract includes a fine equivalent to one week's salary and a four-week suspension without pay. Furthermore, any player who walks out after reporting to training camp risks being placed on the reserve/left squad list, effectively being sidelined for the remainder of the season and having their contract frozen for the following year.
Recent Big Money Extensions
While some players grapple with contract uncertainties, others have secured lucrative deals. Justin Jefferson, for instance, signed a four-year, $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings, which includes $110 million in overall guarantees and $88.743 million fully guaranteed at signing. Similarly, DeVonta Smith secured a three-year, $75 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, and Jaylen Waddle received a three-year, $84.75 million extension from the Miami Dolphins. These contracts highlight the financial rewards for top-performing players, setting benchmarks for future negotiations.
The evolving landscape of NFL contract negotiations, shaped by the 2020 CBA, continues to influence player strategies and team responses. The "hold-in" tactic has emerged as a viable method for players to address their contract grievances without bearing the brunt of severe financial penalties. As the NFL season progresses, the outcomes of these negotiations will be closely watched, holding significant implications for both players and teams alike.