Mandatory minicamp attendance is not optional, and skipping can lead to over $100,000 in fines while also signaling serious tensions between player and team. Currently, T.J. Watt of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Terry McLaurin of the Washington Commanders, and Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals are absent, all seeking new contracts. This situation raises concerns for their teams, especially as all three are key to their organizations’ success.
Cincinnati Bengals: Trey Hendrickson
Panic level: High 馃毃馃毃馃毃
Watt’s situation seems serious, especially since Hendrickson has been public about his contract intentions. With no agreement yet, the Bengals’ efforts to secure him in the offseason have not fulfilled this need.
Hendrickson remarked, “Rather than using collaboration to bring me home to the team, they are no longer communicating,” showcasing the urgency of reaching a resolution before the season starts.
Pittsburgh Steelers: T.J. Watt
Panic level: Medium 馃毃馃毃
Entering the last year of a four-year, $112 million deal, Watt’s position is precarious amidst negotiations. Although he’s not the highest-paid defensive player anymore, his impressive record and recent accolades underscore the necessity of a revised contract.
Washington Commanders: Terry McLaurin
Panic level: Low 馃毃
After a successful season, McLaurin’s holdout raises eyebrows, especially as the team appears well-capitalized to secure him. Historical patterns suggest they could address his contract positively, which leads to optimism despite current hesitancy.
With ongoing developments, the outcomes of these holdouts will significantly influence team strategies heading into the 2025 NFL season.
