On Tuesday, notable absences from mandatory minicamps across the NFL were observed, including Trey Hendrickson from Cincinnati Bengals, Jonnu Smith from Miami Dolphins, and T.J. Watt from Pittsburgh Steelers. This marks early instances of holdouts as the majority of NFL teams kick-started their minicamps this week. Failure to attend these critical sessions could potentially result in fines for the missing players.
Emerging as a key subject in off-season discussions is Bengals’ edge rusher, Trey Hendrickson. Last season, he remarkably led the NFL with 17.5 sacks. However, he was noticeably absent at the voluntary workouts, fueling rumours about his current contract discord. Hendrickson had been given the green light to explore trade options earlier this off-season.
For the year 2025, Hendrickson is set to earn a base salary of $15.8 million. Responding to speculation surrounding Hendrickson’s possible departure, Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow shared his concerns. Although he acknowledged the potentiality of such an event, he expressed doubt that it would bolster the team’s performance.
Burrow stated to the press, ‘It is obviously a possibility,’ regarding Hendrickson leaving the team. However, he voiced out his uncertainty over what the future holds, saying ‘We will have to wait and see what the outcome will be. I’m unsure about the eventual course of events.’
Apart from Hendrickson, Shemar Stewart, a rookie pass rusher for the Bengals who was selected 17th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, was also seen making his way to the minicamp. Unlike Hendrickson, Stewart attended but did not engage in any drills or activities. His first contract remains unsigned.
Meanwhile, another notable absence from the mandatory minicamps was Jonnu Smith of the Miami Dolphins. Following a spectacular season with career-bests in catches (88), yards (884), and touchdowns (eight), Smith’s name has been buzzing in the trade rumor mill. His absence is thought to be linked to a contract dispute with the Dolphins.
Concerning Smith’s absence, Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel issued a brief statement: ‘For now, expect Jonnu to be out of sight this week.’ He also mentioned that communication regarding Smith’s situation is ongoing within the franchise.
Another standout footballer, 2021 Defensive Player of the Year and four-time first-team All-Pro, T.J. Watt of the Pittsburgh Steelers, was notably missing from the practice sessions. He, like others, is believed to be in the midst of negotiating a contract extension.
Tuesday’s minicamp also marked the absence of a couple of other notable figures from different teams on minicamp day. Among the missing were Terry McLaurin, wide receiver for the Washington Commanders, and Jalen Ramsey, cornerback for the Miami Dolphins.
After signing a three-year, $68.3 million extension in 2022, McLaurin is in pursuit of a fresh contract. His absence from minicamp is a likely indicator of this unsettled negotiation with the Commanders.
On the other side, the Dolphins’ efforts to trade Jalen Ramsey were clear when they gave him formal permission to skip the minicamp activities. Ramsey was particularly notable amongst the missing footballers, confirmed as being on an excused absence.
The trend of player absences from mandatory NFL minicamps is likely to continue through the week. Some franchises are yet to kick off their minicamps, which are set to start in the week to follow.