NFL Training Camp Kickoff: Some Players Face Contract Delays

The NFL training camp has officially begun, which means we’re inching closer to the football season. That said, for a handful of players, the start of the season may be somewhat uncertain.

It’s quite unusual for players to miss training camp while they’re in contract negotiations. After all, they really don’t want to risk injuries—not when there’s money on the table. I mean, who can blame them? Some players, like Darrelle Revis, have managed their contracts well, whereas others like Le’Veon Bell and Haason Reddick have faced setbacks.

As we move into this new season, certain contract situations are undoubtedly more complex than others. It seems that with fresh contracts being handed out, we’ve seen a few notable players from practice squads popping up on our radar.

Mika Parsons

Parsons recently mentioned that back issues are keeping him from practicing. Earlier this year, he told Fox News Digital he could probably handle the pressure without a new deal—though it’s kind of concerning. With a career total of 52.5 sacks, he’s among the top players during his initial four seasons. Plus, he’s managed to rank in the top three for Player of the Year voting in his first three years. Definitely seems like he should be cashing in. But instead of a smooth contract negotiation, he and owner Jerry Jones have been trading barbs recently.

Terry McLaurin

McLaurin, on the other hand, signed a hefty three-year extension worth over $68 million before the 2022 season, which is just kicking off now. You’d think it would be an odd time for him to hesitate, especially with Washington trying to avoid a sophomore slump with rookie quarterback Jaden Daniels. Still, McLaurin—who celebrated his 30th birthday on September 15—had a stellar year, scoring a career-high of 13 touchdowns and also notched his fifth 1,000-yard season.

Trey Hendrickson

Over with the Cincinnati Bengals, things seem to be at a standstill. Hendrickson didn’t participate in any offseason activities leading up to training camp. He made quite an impression last season, racking up 17.5 sacks and earning All-Pro honors. However, frustrations are bubbling over as he expressed that the Bengals haven’t been responsive regarding a new contract, and he isn’t interested in playing out the final year of his current deal.

At 30 years old, he’s been a solid asset for Cincinnati since 2021, especially after moving from the New Orleans Saints where it took a while for him to really shine.

Shemar Stewart

Then there’s Stewart, the 17th pick from the April draft. He’s been in the news for his rookie contract disputes, which seems to have sparked some harsh exchanges between both sides. Not the best introduction to the league, especially since he skipped the mandatory minicamp last month.

Alex Anzalone

And speaking of contracts, Anzalone is also dealing with some injury woes while voicing his desire for a new deal. “I want to retire as a Lion. That’s the goal. It’s disappointing,” he shared. Currently, he’s in the last year of an $18.3 million contract with Detroit after spending the last four seasons there.