Wide receivers are known for their diva attitudes more than any other position in football. With the Minnesota Vikings making Justin Jefferson the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, star receivers across the league are looking for their own pay bumps and are willing to hold out of training camp if necessary. Here are eight contract holdouts and potential holdouts to keep an eye on before training camp begins.
CeeDee Lamb, wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys, skipped mandatory minicamp and reports suggest he won’t report to training camp without a new deal. The Cowboys are also dealing with quarterback Dak Prescott’s contract situation, adding further tension to the team.
Brandon Aiyuk of the San Francisco 49ers has been stirring the pot about his contract, hinting at a possible trade to the Washington Commanders. The Niners may have to decide between an extension or a trade for Aiyuk.
Ja’Marr Chase, a wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, is a priority for the team’s front office after teammate Tee Higgins signed his franchise tender. Chase’s value has increased following Jefferson’s big payday, making him a key figure in the Bengals’ future plans.
Haason Reddick of the New York Jets has yet to report to the team after they traded for him without a long-term deal in place. The Jets’ handling of the situation has raised eyebrows, especially considering Reddick’s impressive performance in the past.
Tyreek Hill of the Miami Dolphins, despite being the highest-paid receiver at one point, is seeking a new contract as market values continue to rise. The Dolphins will need to decide whether to meet Hill’s demands or risk losing him to another team.
Amari Cooper, a wide receiver for the Cleveland Browns, didn’t report to mandatory minicamp and is entering the final year of his contract. Cooper has been a consistent performer for the Browns and will be looking for a new deal to reflect his value.
Courtland Sutton of the Denver Broncos, while not as accomplished as other star receivers, is the clear No. 1 option for the team. Sutton caught 10 touchdowns last season and is expecting a raise in his contract negotiations.
Tua Tagovailoa, quarterback for the Miami Dolphins, has been advised by some analysts to hold out until he receives a contract that reflects his value as a young franchise quarterback. The market for top quarterbacks has been set high, and Tagovailoa is looking to secure a deal that matches his peers.
As training camp approaches, these contract holdouts could create significant storylines for the upcoming NFL season. Teams will need to navigate contract negotiations carefully to ensure they retain their key players and maintain a competitive edge in the league.