During the voluntary spring workouts, NFL teams focus on the foundational aspects of their schematics. While the absence of players from organized team activities (OTAs) might not warrant immediate concern, it can signal potential contract disputes. Players are not penalized for skipping voluntary workouts, but unexcused absences from mandatory minicamps can officially categorize a player as a holdout, as outlined in the NFL's Collective Bargaining Agreement. When a prominent player chooses to hold out, it serves as a clear indication to the organization that negotiations need to progress, often demanding a revised deal or an extension.

Amid this offseason, contract negotiations have attracted attention, with star edge rushers and offensive linemen at the forefront of discussions. The Buffalo Bills, for instance, recently extended contracts for wide receiver Khalil Shakir, edge-rusher Greg Rousseau, and linebacker Terrel Bernard, all of whom had years remaining on their existing agreements. Running back James Cook is seeking a similar outcome, but general manager Brandon Beane has approached Cook’s contract situation with a lack of urgency. Cook was the only Bills player absent from OTAs at the end of May, and while he isn't subject to fines due to the voluntary nature of the workouts, his reluctance to discuss a possible holdout indicates a readiness to advocate for his financial worth. ESPN's reports suggest that Cook desires an annual salary of $16 million, which positions him among the highest-paid at his position. Despite being a leading player on the team and having impressive statistics, he faces challenges in securing a new deal due to limited leverage for running backs in contract negotiations.

Trey Hendrickson's public dispute with the Cincinnati Bengals has intensified, especially after his standout All-Pro season. Hendrickson has publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the team's low offers, which do not align with past discussions about his performance. His willingness to forego playing under the current contract has raised concerns, as his strong performance in the previous season places him in a powerful position to negotiate. Elgton Jenkins' situation with the Green Bay Packers revolves around a potential shift from guard to center, affecting his contract negotiations and potential earnings. There's an expectation that Jenkins might need to apply pressure for the team to amend his contract, as the Packers typically do not revise contracts with more than a year remaining. Other notable players such as Terry McLaurin of the Washington Commanders and Micah Parsons of the Dallas Cowboys are also navigating contract situations that could impact their future with their respective teams. As the roster dynamics evolve and negotiations progress, the pressure builds for franchises to balance contract disputes with their overall strategic goals.