In 2026, the NFL preseason began with the Pro Football Hall of Fame on August 6, followed by three weeks of action. Yet several high‑profile players are still absent from full practices due to contract disputes, a scenario known as a *hold‑in*. The league’s top hold‑ins include Jahmyr Gibbs (Detroit Lions), Bijan Robinson (Atlanta Falcons), Vita Vea (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) and Tuli Tuipulotu (Los Angeles Chargers). While Gibbs missed his second consecutive practice, Lions coach Dan Campbell said he was not “sweating it” and a long‑term deal is in progress. Robinson, similarly, sat out his second day, appearing on the sidelines but without gear, as Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski plans to address the situation. Vea, who earned $17 million this season but has no guaranteed money, was on the sidelines after a back tweak but remains a trade request. Tuipulotu, meanwhile, engaged in training but skipped formal practice sessions, indicating ongoing negotiations. These hold‑ins highlight the tension between player compensation and team roster management as the season approaches.

NFL teams must decide whether to allow players to practice while holding out or to penalize them with fines. The outcome of these disputes will shape the early season lineups and could force players to miss games if contracts aren’t resolved.

The situation underscores how modern NFL contracts involve complex financial terms, including bonuses and guaranteed money, which can lead to hold‑ins when negotiations stall. The league’s 2026 preseason will be watched closely as teams attempt to resolve these disputes before the regular season starts.