NFL faces hold-in challenges as contract disputes impact team dynamics
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 4, 2026, 1:39 PM
Last updated Oct 4, 2026

The NFL is confronted with hold-in tactics as players seek contract negotiations. Under the current Collective Bargaining Agreement, players can choose to attend training while refusing to participate in practices, leveraging injuries to negotiate better terms. Notable cases include Joey Porter Jr., who sat out all training camp and the first three regular season games for the Steelers, only to be traded to the Cowboys. Discussions are underway on how to address this loophole, including potential involvement of independent doctors to evaluate player injuries. Teams might also explore financial incentives for participation.
- •Players use hold-in methods to pressure teams for better contracts.
- •Joey Porter Jr. missed training camp, impacting Steelers' roster decisions.
- •Upcoming labor talks could address loopholes in player contracts.
- •Teams may consider independent medical evaluations for disputes.
- •Financial incentives for practice participation are under consideration.
- 1:39 PMYahoo Sports — NFL will surely want to plug "hold-in" loophole, but it won't be easy
"When the workers find real power, management can't take it.
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