Holdout List Grows: Prominent NFL Players, Including Watt And McLaurin, Missing Minicamp

David

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Post on Jun 12, 2025

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Holdout List Grows: Prominent NFL Players, Including Watt and McLaurin, Skip Minicamp

A wave of absences rocks the NFL as star players leverage their contracts. The NFL offseason is typically a whirlwind of free agency signings and draft picks, but this year, a different kind of drama is unfolding: a growing number of prominent players are skipping mandatory minicamps, creating a ripple effect across the league. Among the notable names missing are J.J. Watt of the Arizona Cardinals and Terry McLaurin of the Washington Commanders, raising questions about contract negotiations and the future of the NFL's labor landscape.

High-Profile Holdouts:

This year's minicamp absences represent a significant shift in player power. While players skipping voluntary workouts is common, the noticeable lack of attendance at mandatory minicamps signals a new level of leverage being exerted by top talent. Beyond Watt and McLaurin, several other players have also chosen to sit out, highlighting a potential trend of increased player activism regarding contract terms and working conditions.

• J.J. Watt (Arizona Cardinals): The future Hall of Famer is reportedly seeking a contract restructure, aiming for a more favorable financial arrangement given his age and recent injury history. This isn't the first time Watt has negotiated a contract, showcasing the ongoing dialogue between veteran players and team management regarding fair compensation.

• Terry McLaurin (Washington Commanders): McLaurin's absence underscores the importance of securing long-term financial security for star players. He's seeking a contract extension that reflects his consistent high-level performance and leadership within the Commanders organization. His situation highlights the ongoing negotiations between star receivers and teams.

• Other Notable Absences: While Watt and McLaurin garner the most attention, other players are also choosing to miss minicamp, indicating a broader trend of players prioritizing their contract demands. This underscores the complexities of negotiating player contracts in the NFL.

The Stakes are High:

The impact of these absences goes beyond individual players. Teams lose valuable on-field practice time, hindering the development of team chemistry and strategic coordination. Moreover, the holdouts fuel speculation about potential trades and the overall stability of team rosters heading into the regular season. The situation highlights the delicate balance between player rights, team needs, and the financial realities of the NFL.

What's Next?

The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the resolutions of these contract disputes. Negotiations are ongoing, and the possibility of fines or further action by the NFL remains. However, the prominence of the players involved underscores a potential shift in power dynamics within the league, with players increasingly leveraging their influence to secure favorable contract terms. This situation will undoubtedly continue to be a focal point in the NFL news cycle, with fans and analysts alike eagerly awaiting updates on the negotiations.

Looking Ahead: The increasing number of holdouts signals a potential shift in the NFL's power balance. It will be interesting to see how teams respond to these challenges and whether this trend continues in future seasons. The ongoing negotiations will undoubtedly shape the landscape of NFL player contracts for years to come. Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.