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As the NFL offseason progresses, it’s clear that many high-profile players are missing Organized Team Activities (OTAs), often with underlying reasons that remain unclear. Some are testing the market for better contracts, others are angling for trades, and motivations vary widely.
Despite all the ongoing drama, there are notable absences at OTAs that might significantly affect team dynamics. Missing mandatory minicamps can result in fines unless the player appeared but didn’t participate fully. According to the NFL Collective Bargaining Agreement, skipping the first day of mandatory minicamp incurs a $17,462 fine, the second day $34,925, and the third day $52,381. However, some athletes avoid these penalties by showing up but choosing not to engage actively.
NFL Nation reporters share updates on various players absent from OTAs and what to expect at minicamps:
Kirk Cousins (Atlanta Falcons): Cousins skipped some OTAs. He wants to start this season but behind Michael Penix Jr., his chances are slim. Atlanta isn’t keen on releasing him due to his $27.5 million salary cap hit in 2025, only negotiating if a large portion of his guaranteed money for 2026 is covered.
Dalvin Cook (Buffalo Bills): Cook is sitting out voluntary OTAs while seeking a new contract following a stellar 2024 season with over 1,000 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns. Despite his importance to the offense, talks haven’t progressed far.
Trey Hendrickson (Cincinnati Bengals): Hendrickson is skipping voluntary OTAs and won’t play the final year of his current deal, pushing for a new contract or trade.
Breece Stewart (Seattle Seahawks): Stewart hasn’t participated due to ongoing contract negotiations. If no deal is reached, missing mandatory camps could lead to penalties.
Micah Parsons (Dallas Cowboys): Parsons has been sporadically involved in offseason activities, eyeing a contract extension while staying connected to the team.
Jaire Alexander (Green Bay Packers): The Packers plan to release Alexander due to contract disagreements after a disappointing injury-plagued season.
Kenny Jenkins (Green Bay Packers): Jenkins skipped all offseason programs, wanting a contract adjustment as he transitions positions from safety to center.
Chase Young (Miami Dolphins): Young’s situation includes uncertain participation and trade talks, with the team eager to move him but hindered by financial constraints.
Mike Smith (Miami Dolphins): Smith had a career-best season and is searching for a pay raise, though Miami is hesitant.
TJ Watt (Pittsburgh Steelers): Watt is negotiating an extension and skipped OTAs, possibly signaling contract frustration amid rising market values for elite pass rushers.
DK Metcalf (Pittsburgh Steelers): Metcalf has avoided participation in OTA sessions while adjusting to a new team dynamic.
Shaquil Reddick (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): Reddick missed OTAs but is expected to report as the team focuses on position coaching.
Marcus Lattimore (Washington Commanders): Lattimore skipped voluntary OTAs due to lingering injury limitations, following a midseason trade from New Orleans.
Terry McLaurin (Washington Commanders): McLaurin skipped voluntary OTA sessions amid ongoing extension talks after a highly productive season. Team officials express understanding of the business aspect.
- Laremy Tunsil (Washington Commanders): Tunsil missed initial OTA sessions, consistent with his history of voluntary absences but remains a key player for the offensive line.
Fan Take: This offseason’s absence of key players from OTAs highlights the increasing tension between player contracts and team negotiations, potentially impacting team chemistry and performance. For fans, it signals that the business side of the NFL is becoming just as crucial as on-field action, shaping team futures and rivalries.
