As the NFL moves through OTAs and mandatory minicamps, teams gear up for training camp at July’s end amid uncertainties surrounding key players’ contract statuses. Several top pass rushers are negotiating lucrative deals, but it remains to be seen which franchises can meet their demands.
NFL Nation provides updates on the status of notable NFL players with looming contract decisions:
Franchise Tags:
- The Kansas City Chiefs prioritize re-signing guard Trey Smith, who is expected to become the highest-paid at his position. They opted not to franchise tag him or trade starting guard Joe Thuney.
2026 Free Agents:
- Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts, known for a historically strong rookie season, faces an important contract year amid injury challenges and team hopes pinned on new QB Michael Penix Jr.
- Buffalo Bills running back James Cook, in the final year of his rookie deal, is negotiating an extension but has not yet agreed on terms. He missed OTAs but remains in contact with the team.
- Cincinnati Bengals edge rusher Sam Hubbard seeks a longer-term deal with security, while the team prefers a shorter contract. Hubbard is a key defensive asset ranked high in sacks and pressures.
- Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons is in late-stage contract talks, with both sides close to agreement after a personal meeting. His contract situation echoes previous delayed negotiations seen with other star Cowboys.
- Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton and edge rusher Jonathon Bonitto are in contract talks, with Bonitto expected to command a top-tier edge rusher salary. The Broncos aim to secure both long-term.
- Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Chandler Miller is in the final year of his deal but remains a target for an extension given his longstanding contributions. Cap space is available to lock him in.
- Los Angeles Chargers tackle Rashawn Slater is engaged in extension talks after a Pro Bowl season, despite not attending offseason workouts.
- Los Angeles Rams RB Kyren Williams, a top NFL rusher last season, is in ongoing contract discussions as the team manages multiple future extension priorities.
- Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end T.J. Watt continues offseason negotiations while absent from OTAs, with the team optimistic about his future in Pittsburgh.
- Washington Commanders WR Terry McLaurin, a consistent top receiver and leader, is negotiating an extension though his approaching age may influence contract terms.
2027 Free Agents:
- Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drake London has his fifth-year option picked up, signaling the team’s intention to retain him alongside rookie QB Michael Penix Jr.
- Baltimore Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton has his fifth-year option picked up but may seek a record-setting extension, reflecting his pivotal defensive role.
- Detroit Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson’s fifth-year option was exercised, with extension talks pending after his injury recovery and the team’s established trend of locking in talent.
- Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie, crucial to their defense, has a fifth-year option that keeps him through 2026 amid a high market for cornerbacks.
- New York Jets cornerback Sauce Gardner seeks a deal matching the highest at his position, as he remains central to the team’s defensive scheme.
- Jets WR Garrett Wilson believes he’s a “Jet forever,” with contract talks expected to intensify during training camp. He looks for a lucrative extension amidst team cap flexibility.
- Seattle Seahawks tackle Charles Cross had his fifth-year option picked up, and contract talks are anticipated around training camp, marking a notable step for Seattle’s first-round picks.
Fan Take:
This comprehensive update highlights how critical contract negotiations are shaping NFL team dynamics even before training camp begins. For fans, these developments could translate to roster stability or unexpected shifts, directly impacting team performance and league competitiveness in the seasons ahead.
