Training camp has arrived for all 32 NFL teams, bringing the usual mix of excitement and tension. Every year, certain players find themselves at odds with their organizations over contracts, respect, or both. Some believe they’ve earned more than what their teams are offering. Others feel undervalued despite years of consistent production.
The result? A familiar summer standoff between players and front offices. Some choose the nuclear option and skip camp entirely. Others show up but make it clear they’re not happy with their current situation.
Who Are the Players Currently Holding Out of Training Camp?
Washington Commanders, Terry McLaurin
Terry McLaurin wants acknowledgment for everything he’s done for Washington, not just a new contract. Following an incredible 2024-25 campaign in which he recorded 82 receptions, 1,096 yards and a career-high 13 touchdowns, McLaurin once again proved he’s not just one of the league’s most dependable receivers but also the emotional center of his team.
He’s stayed consistent through years of unpredictability, quarterback changes, and coaching turnover, showing up each week and working hard regardless of the chaos around him. As he approaches the final year of his contract, McLaurin has made it clear he wants to be paid like the top player he is. For someone who’s continuously given his all, this holdout represents more than money. It’s about value, respect, and security.
The #Commanders have officially placed standout WR Terry McLaurin on the reserve/did not report list, as his holdout begins.
In addition, OL Sam Cosmi is on the PUP list, while WR Noah Brown (who was carted off with an injury in the Spring) is not. Positive sign for Brown. pic.twitter.com/9M5CsBZ5tz
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 23, 2025
Cincinnati Bengals, Shemar Stewart
You can’t blame Shemar Stewart for refusing to give up this fight. The Bengals are attempting to include language in his rookie contract that could revoke guaranteed money due to specific conduct violations, unlike previous first-round deals. Stewart won’t budge, claiming to be “100 percent right,” and he refuses to sign until the agreement meets his standards.
While Stewart trains at Texas A&M, the Bengals grow increasingly frustrated with his absence. Rumors even surfaced about him potentially returning to school, though his former coach quickly shut down that speculation. Ultimately, Stewart is fighting for what he considers fair treatment in his first NFL contract.
#Bengals owner Mike Brown explaining the Shemar Stewart contract language situation:
“If we get a player who does something unacceptable, guess what? I don’t want to pay him. I really don’t. If he’s sitting in jail, I don’t think I have to pay him.” pic.twitter.com/3Ta39gFPtT https://t.co/swpP95IBM9
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) July 21, 2025
Cincinnati Bengals, Trey Hendrickson
Trey Hendrickson isn’t showing up at Bengals training camp, and honestly, who can blame him? After putting up back-to-back seasons with 17.5 sacks, he’s earned the right to ask for long-term security. He’s not asking for the world either, just a multi-year deal with guaranteed money beyond the first year.
However, the Bengals aren’t budging, sticking to their pattern of being conservative with defensive contracts. Hendrickson has had enough. He’s even left the state while the team placed him on the reserve/did not report list. He says he’s willing to compromise, but not at the expense of the respect he’s earned through his production.
Long-term extension talks between the #Bengals and star Trey Hendrickson broke down over guaranteed money before camp… and Hendrickson has now indicated he left the state.
He just posted this on Instagram. pic.twitter.com/Le2aKris0t
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 22, 2025
Which Players Are Currently Holding In at Training Camp?
Dallas Cowboys, Micah Parsons
Micah Parsons showed up to Cowboys camp, but there’s clearly more going on than just back tightness. While he’s not officially holding out, it feels like a “hold-in” as contract talks remain stalled. Parsons wants to be in Dallas and has said that repeatedly, but at some point, the team has to show they want him too.
He’s entering the final year of his rookie deal and knows the franchise tag could be looming. Still, he’s out there warming up and showing up for his teammates, even if he’s not going full speed. Parsons is making a statement without making a scene.
Cowboys DE Micah Parsons: “There’s really not much movement” on contract talks. “I want to be here. At the end of the day, they sign the checks. Let’s see if they want me to be here.”
“I’m doing this for myself and my teammates. This isn’t for Jerry.” pic.twitter.com/Q0mLO3cIZ9
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) July 22, 2025
Green Bay Packers, Elgton Jenkins
Elgton Jenkins has been a quiet presence at Packers camp, sitting out with what’s confirmed as a back injury. But behind the scenes, his contract situation adds another layer to his absence. He’s made multiple Pro Bowls yet earns less than teammates who haven’t reached that level. With a position switch to center, he’s looking for more security.
Still, Jenkins isn’t making noise about his situation. He’s remained professional throughout the process. Packers GM Brian Gutekunst says he expects Jenkins to resume on-field work once cleared, and the hope is that when his back heals, both sides can put the contract tension behind them too.
Gutekunst says Elgton Jenkins is dealing with a back issue.
— Aaron Nagler (@AaronNagler) July 23, 2025
San Francisco 49ers, Jauan Jennings
Jauan Jennings finds himself in a tricky spot. He’s under contract with the 49ers through 2025, but coming off a career-best season, he’s quietly hoping for a new deal or maybe even a trade. Despite contract talks hitting a standstill, he’s still showing up to training camp and giving his all on the field.
Jauan Jennings leading the 49ers WR group, so there is officially no hold-in pic.twitter.com/SNFvKcLkAe
— David Lombardi (@LombardiHimself) July 23, 2025
Jennings clearly wants to play, but he’s also making it known that he deserves more for what he’s proven. The receiver is handling the situation professionally while still making his position clear to the organization.
