How much do NFL players get fined for missing training camp? Inside league's preseason system

The 2024 NFL training camps have begun, with the potential for numerous storylines ahead of the regular season. Players getting fined for being absent is extra common during training camp. This article will examine the league's preseason system and the cost implications of players skipping training camp.

How much do players get fined for missing an NFL training camp?

According to Front Office Sports, NFL players are fined between $40,000 and $50,000 daily for not attending training camp. Players on their rookie contracts are fined $40,000 a day for missing the mandatory preseason camp, while non-rookies are fined $50,000 a day for being absent from camp.

Thus, some players who skip training camp could lose up to half a million dollars. Others could be fined millions, like Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones, who was fined $2.25 million for a 51-day holdout in 2023, per CBS Sports.

The camps run from the reporting date till the first game of the regular season (Sept. 1), so players will also miss team-building exercises, workout regimes and general tune-up activities.

Why do NFL players miss training camp?

NFL players mostly miss training camp due to contractual holdouts. Rookies and veterans employ this strategy when demanding a new or improved contract.

Here are three notable players currently missing significant portions of the 2024 training camp:

1. CeeDee Lamb, Wide Receiver, Dallas Cowboys

According to Front Office Sports, Pro Bowler CeeDee Lamb is not expected to be at training camp with the rest of his Dallas teammates. The Cowboys WR1 enters the upcoming season on the last year of his rookie deal.

Lamb is reportedly demanding a contract extension that would make him one of the best-paid pass catchers in the league. He'll likely avoid training camp until his demands are met.

2. Haason Reddick, Edge Rusher, New York Jets

According to ESPN, Haason Reddick is skipping the New York Jets training camp. The Pro Bowl-caliber edge rusher is seeking a lucrative contract extension from the Jets.

Reddick's holdout is extra ironic, considering he only joined the Jets via trade four months ago.

3. Trent Williams, Offensive Tackle, San Francisco 49ers

Trent Williams isn't participating in the San Francisco 49ers training camp. The future Hall of Famer doesn't have any money guaranteed for the final three years of his existing contract, and he wants assurances before joining the rest of the team.

49ers coach Kyle Shanahan is optimistic of a compromise being reached in the not-too-distant future.