The time for NFL training camps has officially begun, and with it comes the season of players seeking better contracts, sometimes resorting to holdouts or “hold-ins.”
Following reports that Terry McLaurin had requested a trade from the Washington Commanders, Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons also expressed a similar desire.
Parsons detailed his wish for a trade in an extensive social media post, explaining that contract negotiations with the Cowboys had deteriorated in recent months.
Owner Jerry Jones addressed the media on Saturday, stating that he has no intention of trading Parsons. Jones dismissed the trade request as a mere negotiating strategy.
“That’s just part of the negotiation process,” Jones commented to reporters. “I’ve encountered this situation many times during my 30 years in the NFL.”
Similar to Parsons, McLaurin has joined the training camp but has been sidelined from practices due to an injury.
However, lacking a new agreement, McLaurin has escalated the situation. While the Commanders are reportedly not considering the star receiver’s trade request, tensions are rising between the two players and their respective teams.
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Which other notable players have either not reported to camp or are participating only partially in practice as they pursue new contracts? Are these situations generating significant turmoil? Here’s an overview, ranking each situation based on the level of attention and conflict on both sides.
Dallas Cowboys Linebacker Micah Parsons
Given Parsons’ public expression of a trade request, it remains uncertain whether this is simply a negotiating tactic or a genuine expression of frustration. Yahoo Sports’ Jori Epstein has indicated that a key disagreement stems from owner Jerry Jones’ belief that he had already reached a verbal agreement with Parsons some months prior. Parsons has stated that his agent will handle the negotiations. The Cowboys are accustomed to prolonged contract discussions, but the current level of discord appears to be escalating.
Washington Commanders Wide Receiver Terry McLaurin
McLaurin reported to the Commanders on Sunday morning, but his subsequent trade request suggests that negotiations are not proceeding smoothly. ESPN has reported that the two parties have not achieved any progress on a new contract. Is this trade request a mere pressure tactic against Washington, or is it a serious demand?
Cincinnati Bengals Defensive End Trey Hendrickson
Hendrickson’s presence at camp on Wednesday doesn’t necessarily indicate an easing of the situation. It may simply be a pragmatic decision given the $50,000 daily fine for missed practices. This does not negate Hendrickson’s passive-aggressive social media post from Florida when camp opened last week, nor his description of a recent Bengals offer as “atrociously, atrociously low.” This situation remains a significant one to watch.
Buffalo Bills Running Back James Cook
Cook had been practicing regularly throughout camp until he missed Sunday’s session for an unstated reason. When asked about his absence, he informed reporters it was a “business” matter. Cook has openly discussed his desire for a new contract, stating last month, “I deserve what I want.” It remains to be seen whether this situation will intensify.
Green Bay Packers Offensive Lineman Elgton Jenkins
Jenkins attributed his absence from OTAs to a “family matter,” rather than his contract situation. He was removed from the NFI list the prior week and participated in practice on Monday, including playing center and snapping to Jordan Love. Green Bay recently provided offensive lineman Zach Tom with record-setting signing bonus money as part of his new contract. Will Jenkins receive a similar offer? And how will his transition from guard to center impact the negotiations?
San Francisco 49ers Wide Receiver Jauan Jennings
Jennings is currently participating in practices with the 49ers, suggesting that he does not plan to hold in, although he has missed some practices because of a calf injury. Head coach Kyle Shanahan has refuted reports that Jennings had requested a trade if he did not receive a contract extension. The injury introduces an interesting element to Jennings’ pursuit of an extension.
