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NFL (American Football)

T.J. Watt Sets New Pay Record as Micah Parsons Eyes Even Bigger Deal With Cowboys

T.J. Watt
T.J. Watt (NFL)

T.J. Watt’s new contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers has made him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, earning $41 million annually in new money. While this is a significant milestone, it’s widely expected that this record won’t last long. The next player in line to potentially break it is Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons, whose next contract is expected to reset the market.

Parsons’ Youth and Performance Set Stage for Record-Breaking Deal Beyond Watt’s Contract

The anticipation around Parsons’ deal stems from both his elite performance and his age. Unlike Watt and Myles Garrett, who were older when they signed their mega-deals, Parsons is younger and arguably entering his prime. That age advantage, combined with the trajectory of defensive contracts, suggests his deal could reach or exceed $45 million per year.

T.J. Watt
T.J. Watt (NFL)

From a strategic standpoint, Parsons and his agents likely waited for Watt’s deal to be finalized. Watt’s contract now serves as a critical reference point in negotiations, helping to establish a new financial baseline for elite edge rushers. With that benchmark in place, Parsons’ team is better positioned to argue for a significantly higher number.

Cowboys Face Rising Costs the Longer They Delay Parsons’ Contract Extension Negotiations

This situation also puts pressure on the Cowboys. The longer they wait to extend Parsons, the higher the eventual cost could be. As the market continues to climb and Parsons keeps performing at a high level, Dallas risks paying a premium for waiting too long to negotiate.

Ultimately, Watt’s contract has done more than just make history — it has set the stage for the next major financial leap at the linebacker position. All eyes now turn to Dallas and when they’ll make their move to lock in one of the NFL’s most dominant young defenders.

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NFL (American Football)

Bills Sign T.J. Sanders as Second-Round Contract Dominoes Fall Ahead of Training Camp

T.J. Sanders
T.J. Sanders (NFL)

The Buffalo Bills secured their second-round draft pick, T.J. Sanders, just ahead of training camp by finalizing his rookie contract on Thursday night. Sanders, a defensive lineman from South Carolina, was signed to a four-year deal, ensuring his participation in preseason preparations without delay.

The contract, negotiated by agent Drew Rosenhaus, is worth \$10.645 million, with \$10.073 million guaranteed. That amounts to approximately 95% of the total contract being guaranteed, a figure that reflects this year’s elevated expectations for second-round draft picks.

T.J. Sanders
T.J. Sanders (NFL)

Unprecedented Guarantees Delayed Second-Round Signings Until Preseason Pressure Sparked Quick Deals

This year, a major hold-up in signing second-round rookies stemmed from early deals made by the Browns and Texans. The first two players selected in the second round, Carson Schwesinger and Jayden Higgins, received fully guaranteed contracts—an unprecedented move. Their deals set a new standard, prompting other agents to hold out for similarly generous guarantees.

However, as the start of training camp loomed, urgency grew among teams and players alike. In the past 24 hours, many second-round picks have signed, ending the two-month signing drought. Sanders is expected to contribute immediately in the Bills’ defensive rotation, and with his contract signed, he’ll now be able to fully participate in camp from day one.

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NFL (American Football)

Chargers Ink Rookie Tre Harris as Second-Round Contract Standoff Begins to Break League-Wide

Tre Harris
Tre Harris (NFL)

NFL teams are beginning to finalize contracts with their second-round draft picks, and the Los Angeles Chargers have now secured an agreement with wide receiver Tre Harris. As the team kicked off training camp, Harris signed his rookie deal, marking a significant step for both him and the organization. His signing was confirmed by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, signaling the end of a brief holdout and allowing Harris to fully participate in team activities.

The deal came just after Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh expressed optimism that an agreement would be reached soon. Harbaugh emphasized the importance of resolving the contract situation, acknowledging the business side of football while expressing confidence in General Manager Joe Hortiz’s ability to close the deal. Harbaugh made it clear he hoped the matter would be resolved quickly, reinforcing the value of having all players present for the start of training camp.

Tre Harris
Tre Harris (NFL)

Second-Round Contracts Gain Traction As Teams, Agents Settle On Improved Guarantees

Harris’s delay in signing was part of a broader league-wide trend involving second-round draft picks. The first two selections of the round received fully guaranteed contracts, an unusual move that raised expectations for the rest of the second-round players. This led to extended negotiations across the league, as agents pushed for better financial terms in light of those initial deals.

However, progress is finally being made, with Harris’s signing part of a growing number of second-round agreements being completed. As teams report to training camps, the urgency to get players on the field has driven both sides to compromise. For Harris and the Chargers, the timing is ideal, allowing the promising rookie to integrate fully into the team’s system under a new coaching regime and begin preparing for the upcoming season.

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NFL (American Football)

Chargers Face Camp Setbacks as Najee Harris Recovers From Fireworks Injury and Contract Talks Stall

Najee Harris
Najee Harris (NFL)

Los Angeles Chargers running back Najee Harris was placed on the non-football injury/illness (NFI) list following an eye injury sustained during a July 4 fireworks accident. Although the incident involved multiple injuries, including a friend losing fingers, Harris’ agent described his injury as “superficial.”

General Manager Joe Hortiz expressed optimism, stating that Harris’ time on the list likely won’t be long and he is expected to be ready for the upcoming season.

Chargers Monitor Injured Players As Harris, Williams, Molden Miss Start Of Camp

As Chargers veterans reported for training camp, Harris remained in the Bay Area for ongoing treatment with doctors at Stanford. Chargers medical staff, led by director of player health and performance Marco Zucconi, have maintained regular contact with Harris’ doctors. According to Hortiz, all updates from those appointments have been positive, though the team has not yet personally evaluated the injury.

Najee Harris
Najee Harris (NFL)

Harris isn’t the only key Charger sidelined at the start of camp. Wide receiver Mike Williams and safety Elijah Molden were both placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Williams is dealing with an undisclosed spring injury, while Molden is recovering from offseason surgery. Like Harris, both players are expected to return relatively early in training camp.

Contract Talks Stall For Tre Harris, Rashawn Slater As Camp Practice Gains Importance

Rookie wide receiver Tre Harris was notably absent from the facility due to unresolved contract negotiations. He remains one of 30 unsigned second-round picks after early picks in the round received fully guaranteed deals. This has led to a wider push by agents for more guaranteed money. Hortiz expressed hope that a deal would be reached soon, emphasizing the importance of training camp practice for player development.

Hortiz also addressed the contract status of left tackle Rashawn Slater, who is entering the final year of his rookie deal. While there has been no extension finalized, Hortiz noted that “positive conversations” are ongoing with Slater’s agent. Slater previously declined to confirm whether he would play the season without a new contract, leaving his status an important storyline to watch.

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NFL (American Football)

Justin Herbert Turns to UV-Protective Contacts to Boost Vision and Comfort at Chargers Camp

Justin Herbert
Justin Herbert (NFL)

Justin Herbert, quarterback for the Los Angeles Chargers, is aiming to improve his on-field vision this season with the help of specially designed contact lenses. After the team’s first training camp practice, his typically blue eyes appeared red, drawing attention and raising questions. ESPN’s Kris Rhim reported that the change in eye color is due to the new contact lenses Herbert has chosen to wear.

These lenses aren’t just for visual clarity—they also offer UV protection, which Herbert says has already made a difference. He noted that he didn’t have to squint as much during practice, enhancing his comfort and focus. Herbert added that when he stepped into the huddle, some teammates reacted positively, joking that the new look made it seem like they were going to score.

Justin Herbert
Justin Herbert (NFL)

Herbert Switches To UV-Protective Contacts For Clearer, Low-Maintenance On-Field Vision

Previously, Herbert tried using a tinted visor to shield his eyes but found it impractical because it needed frequent cleaning. The contact lenses provide a more consistent and less maintenance-heavy solution for his light sensitivity and vision needs, especially in bright outdoor conditions.

He started wearing the prescription contacts for sensitive eyes earlier this week and plans to continue using them throughout the season. Herbert also mentioned that he would check with the NFL to ensure the lenses are compliant with league regulations, showing his intent to make this adjustment both effective and rule-abiding.

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NFL (American Football)

Eagles Near Deal With Andrew Mukuba as Second-Round Contract Momentum Builds Ahead of Camp

Andrew Mukuba
Andrew Mukuba (NFL)

As of the article’s publication, the Philadelphia Eagles have yet to sign second-round pick Andrew Mukuba to his rookie contract. With training camp set to begin on Tuesday, July 22, there’s growing optimism that a deal will be completed in time for Mukuba to participate. His absence so far reflects a broader trend affecting many 2025 second-round picks.

Rookie Deals Shift as Second-Round Picks Push for Higher Guaranteed Contract Terms

The delay in signing second-round picks stems from a shift in contract guarantees. The first two picks in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft received fully guaranteed deals, an unprecedented move for that round. As a result, many remaining second-rounders have held off signing, hoping to secure similarly favorable terms.

Andrew Mukuba
Andrew Mukuba (NFL)

Signs of progress came mid-week when the San Francisco 49ers signed Alfred Collins, the 43rd overall pick, to a contract that is reportedly 88% guaranteed — a significant increase over comparable deals from 2024. ESPN’s Adam Schefter called the shift a “huge jump,” indicating that teams may now be more willing to offer better guarantees.

With Comparable Picks Signed, Mukuba’s Contract Likely to Be Finalized Soon

Momentum continued Thursday as two more second-round picks — Shemar Turner (No. 62) and Mike Green (No. 59) — reportedly signed their rookie deals. While the full details haven’t been disclosed, the flurry of signings strengthens the expectation that Mukuba will finalize his contract soon, especially since comparable picks near his draft position are now under contract.

Andrew Mukuba was drafted 64th overall, just after Turner, and only one pick before No. 65 Darius Robinson, who signed back in June. With the framework for Mukuba’s contract now clearer, a resolution seems near.

It’s crucial for Mukuba to be at camp on time, as he’s in competition for the starting safety role opposite Reed Blankenship. Encouragingly, he’s been staying in shape training in South Jersey, and all signs point to a contract being finalized by mid-next week.

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NFL (American Football)

Lions Sign Rookie Lineman Ratledge Amid League-Wide Rookie Deal Delays Sparked by Texans

Tate Ratledge
Tate Ratledge (NFL)

Per Jordan Schultz, the Detroit Lions signed rookie lineman Ratledge on Thursday. With his contract now officially in place, he is eligible to join the Lions’ training camp, where rookies began reporting as early as Wednesday. This move aligns with the team’s timeline, as they prepare for the full start of camp later this week.

Texans’ Bold Move on Rookie Deal Disrupts Second-Round Signings Across the NFL

There was a notable delay across the NFL in signing second-round draft picks due to an unexpected move by the Houston Texans. They offered Jayden Higgins, a second-round wide receiver, a fully guaranteed contract, breaking with long-standing precedent. Historically, while high second-round picks receive most of their deals guaranteed, full guarantees were rare.

Tate Ratledge
Tate Ratledge (NFL)

Following the Texans’ decision, the Browns also signed their 33rd overall pick, Carson Schwesinger, to a fully guaranteed deal. These two contracts set a new benchmark, stalling negotiations across the league as other teams evaluated the implications. It wasn’t until the 49ers signed Alfred Collins, the 43rd pick, to a non-fully guaranteed deal that the signing logjam began to break.

Ratledge Signs in Time to Compete for Starting Center Role at Camp

Ratledge’s contract was finalized Thursday, just one day after the Collins deal, signaling momentum among teams to finalize remaining rookie deals. With Frank Ragnow’s unexpected retirement, Ratledge is expected to compete for the starting center position. Given his limited experience at center, the timing of this signing is crucial, ensuring he gets every valuable rep from the beginning of training camp.

With rookies in camp and Ratledge officially on board, the Lions are nearly ready for full operations. The final step is for the veteran players to report on Saturday. With everyone in place, Detroit will officially kick off training camp on Sunday as it begins preparing for the 2025 NFL season.

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NFL (American Football)

Lions Place Levi Onwuzurike on Reserve/PUP as Injuries Pile Up Ahead of 2025 Season

Levi Onwuzurike
Levi Onwuzurike (NFL)

The Detroit Lions have placed defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike on the reserve/physically unable to perform (PUP) list, which ensures he will miss at least the first four games of the 2025 regular season. The team has not disclosed the specific nature of his injury, creating some uncertainty around his timeline for return.

The reserve/PUP designation differs from the active list as it applies to injuries that prevent players from practicing or playing at the start of the season.

Onwuzurike Returns After Surgery as McNeill and Wingo Join Injury List

Onwuzurike, 27, re-signed with the Lions on a one-year deal this offseason following a strong comeback in 2024. After missing the entire 2022 season due to a serious back injury that required spinal fusion surgery, he made a notable return last season.

He played in 16 games, starting 10, and recorded 28 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and a personal-best 13 quarterback hits. His performance last season was considered a career resurgence and likely contributed to his new deal with the team.

Lions Place Levi Onwuzurike on Reserve/PUP as Injuries Pile Up Ahead of 2025 Season
Levi Onwuzurike (NFL)

In addition to Onwuzurike, fellow defensive tackles Alim McNeill and Mekhi Wingo were placed on the active/PUP list prior to training camp. McNeill is recovering from a torn ACL suffered in December, while Wingo is rehabbing a knee injury from November.

Unlike the reserve list, players on the active/PUP list can be activated at any point during camp once they pass a physical. McNeill had a productive 2024 season with 3.5 sacks and 25 tackles in 14 starts.

Lions Manage Wider Injury Concerns with Multiple Players on PUP and NFI Lists

The Lions’ injury-related designations extended beyond the defensive line. Left tackle Taylor Decker, cornerback Khalil Dorsey, guard Miles Frazier, and linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez were also placed on the active/PUP list. These players are expected to return during camp once they’re cleared medically. These moves are standard procedure in training camp to manage players still in recovery without exposing them to early contact or risk.

Defensive end Josh Paschal and cornerback Stantley Thomas-Oliver III were added to the non-football injury list, indicating their ailments are unrelated to football activities. Meanwhile, running back Anthony Tyus III was waived with a non-football illness designation. These roster decisions reflect a broader strategy by the Lions to manage health concerns conservatively as the team prepares for the upcoming season.

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NFL (American Football)

Browns Rookie Quinshon Judkins Delays Camp Start as Legal Issue Looms Over Contract Signing

Quinshon Judkins
Quinshon Judkins (NFL)

The Cleveland Browns’ rookies are set to report for training camp on Friday, but second-round draft pick Quinshon Judkins will not be among them. The running back, selected early in the second round, has yet to sign his rookie contract, raising questions about his absence as camp begins.

While the delay in signing might typically be tied to negotiations over guaranteed money, that’s not the central issue in this case. According to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, Judkins and the Browns are more focused on a legal matter he is currently facing, which appears to be delaying his participation in team activities.

Quinshon Judkins
Quinshon Judkins (NFL)

Browns, Judkins Reportedly Preparing For Possible NFL Leave Amid Unresolved Legal Issue

There is speculation that both the team and Judkins are preparing for the NFL to potentially place him on paid leave once he officially signs. This move would essentially sideline him regardless of whether or not he has signed, suggesting the situation is being handled cautiously from both a legal and football operations perspective.

The overarching strategy seems to be resolving the legal issue as swiftly as possible so Judkins can face any NFL-imposed discipline — such as an unpaid suspension — and start his professional career with a clean record. For now, both parties are prioritizing off-the-field matters over contract details or training participation.

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NFL (American Football)

Cowboys Dock Trevon Diggs $500K for Skipping Offseason Workouts Amid Ongoing Injury Rehab

Trevon Diggs
Trevon Diggs (NFL)

Dallas Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs will lose $500,000 from his 2025 base salary after failing to meet the offseason program participation requirement outlined in his contract. The clause required Diggs to be present for at least 84.375% of team-facility workouts. Since he fell short, his salary will drop from $9 million to $8.5 million. This penalty is part of a contractual de-escalator meant to ensure offseason involvement by high-profile players.

Cowboys Enforce Clause as Diggs Faces Long Road Back from Serious Knee Injury

While the Cowboys often include de-escalation clauses in large contracts, they typically have the discretion to waive enforcement. However, in this case, the team opted not to make an exception, making Diggs the first known player on the roster to have his base salary reduced due to non-compliance. The move underscores the team’s increasing emphasis on offseason attendance and rehabilitation oversight.

Trevon Diggs
Trevon Diggs (NFL)

Diggs has been recovering from a serious knee injury suffered during a Week 3 practice in 2023, when he tore his ACL. He underwent a chondral bone graft surgery in January 2024 to repair the same knee. This complex procedure involves transplanting bone tissue to stimulate healing and joint regeneration. As a result, Diggs’ recovery timeline remains uncertain, with the possibility that he could miss the entire 2025 season.

Team Frustrated as Diggs Chooses Miami Rehab Over Cowboys Facility, Impacting Future Outlook

A key point of contention has been Diggs’ decision to rehab away from the team facility, primarily in Miami. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones publicly criticized this choice, suggesting it played a role in the team’s decision to enforce the salary reduction clause. The franchise appears to be sending a message about the importance of centralized rehab under the team’s supervision,

Once a standout defensive star, Diggs led the NFL with 11 interceptions in 2021 and earned two Pro Bowl selections. However, injuries have severely limited his recent availability — he’s played only 13 games over the past two seasons, recording just three interceptions. With a lengthy recovery still ahead, questions remain about his long-term health and future impact on the Cowboys’ defense.

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NFL (American Football)

Mike Williams Shocks NFL With Sudden Retirement, Leaves Chargers Reflecting on His Legacy

Mike Williams
Mike Williams (NFL)

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Mike Williams has unexpectedly retired from the NFL, as confirmed by the team on Thursday. The decision reportedly came as a surprise to the Chargers’ organization, with Williams’ agent, Tory Dandy, informing the front office earlier in the week. According to a source close to the team, the news was unanticipated and caught many off guard, especially with the season’s preparations underway.

Injuries, Brief Return, and a Lasting Legacy with the Los Angeles Chargers

Williams, 30, had been sidelined during the Chargers’ offseason activities due to an undisclosed injury. He was placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list ahead of training camp, although general manager Joe Hortiz had expressed optimism about his quick return.

Having been released prior to the 2024 season, Williams spent time with both the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers last year. He rejoined the Chargers in March on a one-year deal, hinting at a possible late-career resurgence before his sudden retirement.

Mike Williams
Mike Williams (NFL)

During his seven seasons with the Chargers, Williams made a significant mark on the franchise. He ranks 10th in receiving yards with 4,806, 13th in receptions with 309, and tied for 13th in touchdowns with 31. His contributions established him as one of the team’s most reliable and productive wideouts, particularly during high-pressure moments. His career stats reflect consistent performance and an ability to deliver in critical situations.

Herbert Reflects on Williams’ Legacy, Chargers Turn to Promising Young Receiving Corps

Williams was particularly valued by quarterback Justin Herbert, who praised the wide receiver for always stepping up when it mattered most. Over four seasons together, the duo connected for 200 receptions, 2,924 yards, and 18 touchdowns across 46 games.

Herbert expressed deep respect and admiration for Williams, calling it an honor to have played alongside him. Despite the tough news, Herbert emphasized that the team would continue to support Williams in his next chapter.

With Williams no longer in the lineup, the Chargers will look to younger talent to fill the void. Wide receivers Quentin Johnston, Tre Harris, and KeAndre Lambert-Smith are expected to see increased roles. Harris, a recent second-round pick, finalized his rookie contract Thursday, providing the team with some stability moving forward.

While Herbert acknowledged that Williams is irreplaceable, he expressed confidence in the receiver group’s ability to rise to the challenge and support each other through the transition.

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NFL (American Football)

T.J. Watt Becomes Highest-Paid Non-QB Again With $123M Steelers Extension

T.J. Watt
T.J. Watt (NFL)

T.J. Watt and the Pittsburgh Steelers have finalized a historic three-year contract extension worth $123 million, making Watt the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history for the second time in his career. The deal includes a staggering $108 million fully guaranteed at signing and an average annual salary (APY) of $41 million.

This surpasses recent contracts given to Ja’Marr Chase and Myles Garrett earlier in the offseason. The agreement ends a lengthy and tense negotiation period and assures Watt’s presence at the Steelers’ training camp in Latrobe, Pennsylvania.

Steelers Teammates and Leadership United to Keep Watt in Pittsburgh Long-Term

Watt, who turns 31 in October, had skipped mandatory minicamp while negotiations continued. The Steelers’ front office remained confident in retaining him long-term, and general manager Omar Khan publicly expressed hope that Watt would retire as a Steeler. Watt’s teammates also actively advocated for the team to finalize the deal.

Defensive leader Cameron Heyward emphasized Watt’s importance to the team, rejecting any trade speculation and lobbying directly with Khan to keep Watt in Pittsburgh.

T.J. Watt
T.J. Watt (NFL)

Breaking Financial Records

The 2024 offseason has been record-setting for top non-quarterback salaries, with Watt now leading the pack. The following table illustrates the top five non-QB contracts by APY:

Player Team APY Date Signed
T.J. Watt PIT $41M July 17
Ja’Marr Chase CIN $40.25M March 18
Myles Garrett CLE $40M March 14
Danielle Hunter HOU $35.6M March 21
Maxx Crosby LV $35.5M March 5

This marks Watt’s second appearance as the league’s top-paid non-QB. In 2021, he signed a four-year, $112 million extension that made him the highest-paid defensive player at the time.

Steelers Lock in Key Piece as Roster Resets for Critical 2025 Season Push

By finalizing the extension now, the Steelers avoid the drama of unresolved contract talks heading into training camp and can fully focus on a pivotal preseason.

The team has made several significant roster upgrades, including signing quarterback Aaron Rodgers and acquiring All-Pro talent like cornerback Jalen Ramsey and receiver DK Metcalf. Watt’s secured presence solidifies the defense’s foundation, allowing the team to align leadership and talent for a strong campaign ahead.

Despite leading the NFL with 73.5 sacks over the past five seasons, Watt remains committed to improving his game. He finished the 2024 season with 11.5 sacks, but his impact waned during a crucial late-season stretch.

Acknowledging the slump in January, Watt said he’s willing to adjust his positioning on the field to continue being a disruptive presence. “I want to be an impact player,” he stated. With a renewed focus and a new contract in place, Watt is poised to continue leading the Steelers’ defense and remain a central figure in their long-term plans.