Rookie Holdouts and Contract Drama: Which NFL Teams Are Facing the Biggest Offseason Headaches?

By Jason Bolton June 16, 2025 09:46

As the 2025 NFL offseason heats up, a handful of rookie holdouts and veteran contract disputes are creating significant headaches for several teams. While rookie holdouts have become rare since the 2011 rookie wage scale limited negotiation leverage, this year has seen an unusual number of first- and second-round draft picks delaying contract signings, raising concerns about training camp readiness and team chemistry.

Rookie Holdouts: A Rare but Growing Phenomenon

Typically, rookie holdouts are uncommon due to the preset salary slots established by the collective bargaining agreement. However, in 2025, at least four first-round picks remain unsigned weeks after the draft. Among them are Shemar Stewart (No. 17, Cincinnati Bengals), Travis Hunter (No. 2, Jacksonville Jaguars), Jahdae Barron (No. 20, Denver Broncos), and Maxwell Hairston (No. 30, Buffalo Bills). Stewart’s holdout has drawn particular attention, as he reportedly disputes contract language that would allow the Bengals to void future guarantees a move he argues is unprecedented compared to recent first-round contracts.

Second-round picks are also following suit, with many delaying signings in hopes of securing fully guaranteed deals similar to those recently signed by Texans wide receiver Den Higgins and Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger. This new trend suggests rookies are becoming more savvy about contract terms beyond just salary figures.

Veteran Holdouts and Contract Disputes

Beyond rookies, several high-profile veterans are also causing offseason turmoil. The AFC North is a hotspot for contract drama, with Pittsburgh Steelers’ star pass rusher T.J. Watt and Cincinnati Bengals’ sack leader Trey Hendrickson both absent from mandatory minicamps due to ongoing contract disputes. Watt, entering the final year of a four-year, $112 million deal, seeks a new contract that reflects the rising market for elite edge rushers. Hendrickson, due $18.6 million in 2025, has publicly demanded a long-term extension and trade if one is not forthcoming.

The Miami Dolphins’ Pro Bowl tight end, fresh off a career year, is reportedly seeking a pay raise and has been the subject of trade talks with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Meanwhile, Washington Commanders’ top receiver Terry McLaurin is at odds with his team over contract extension talks, adding to the list of notable absences from offseason activities.

Impact on Teams and Training Camps

These holdouts and disputes have tangible effects on team preparations. For example, Stewart’s absence from Bengals minicamp limits his ability to acclimate to the NFL’s speed and complexity. Similarly, Watt and Hendrickson’s holdouts leave defensive units without their premier pass rushers during critical early practices.

Teams are walking a fine line between managing salary cap constraints and maintaining competitive rosters. The Bengals’ attempt to alter rookie contract language has raised eyebrows as a possible precedent-setting move, while other teams risk alienating key players by delaying negotiations.

What the Experts Say

NFL analyst Dianna Russini notes, “While rookie holdouts have become rare, this year’s crop is pushing boundaries, especially on contract guarantees. Veterans like Watt and Hendrickson are also leveraging their recent performances to demand market-value deals. It’s a complex dance between player empowerment and team control.”

Shemar Stewart himself criticized the Bengals’ approach, stating, “I’m not asking for anything they haven’t done before. But it feels like they want to win arguments more than games.”

Looking Ahead

With training camps looming, teams will need to resolve these contract issues swiftly to avoid disruptions. While some rookies traditionally sign closer to camp, prolonged holdouts can hinder development and team chemistry. Veteran holdouts risk diminishing their leverage if they miss too much practice time.

The 2025 offseason is marked by an unusual surge in rookie holdouts and veteran contract disputes, creating significant challenges for NFL teams. From Shemar Stewart’s contract standoff with the Bengals to T.J. Watt and Trey Hendrickson’s holdouts in the AFC North, these situations underscore the evolving dynamics of player empowerment and team management. As the season approaches, how these dramas resolve will be critical to teams’ on-field success.