While the players of the NFL arrived at their training camps, notable figures refrained from signing new deals. With the preseason just a week away, the league's offensive and competition week rankings have been meticulously organized. However, based on how training camps are going, this could be a very interesting season.
New York teams take a stand
Protecting one of their essential offensive assets, the New York Giants nabbed the talented Andrew Thomas in a lucrative deal. On Wednesday, Thomas put pen to paper on a substantial five-year, $117.5 million contract.
In an unprecedented move, he broke records by receiving a staggering $67 million as a signing bonus, marking the highest amount ever awarded to an offensive lineman in NFL history.
Nearby, just a few steps away, critical information about quarterback Aaron Rodgers' contract has been revealed by the New York Jets. This Wednesday marked the occasion when the Jets extended Rodgers' contract for an additional two years, valuing a remarkable $75 million.
Notably, Rodgers' initial deal increased to a staggering $110 million when he was traded from the Packers to New York in April. Surprisingly, he graciously accepted a substantial $35 million reduction in his salary.
While his contract remains valid through 2027, the agreement between him and the Jets provides the team with a larger amount of space in 2024.
The Jets and Giants are in a favorable position to secure a playoff berth this season. These strategic decisions give them more upside.
In exactly one week we will have the Hall of Fame game between Jets and Browns and with that, my dears, begins the NFL preseason 🏈 pic.twitter.com/IK9S0TSilF
- Mona (@mariana_morales) July 27, 2023
Diggs family in the spotlight
Stefon Diggs, the Buffalo Bills' wide receiver, has been sending mixed signals all season. His enigmatic online presence during the offseason and his sparse participation in minicamp last month sparked speculation about his enthusiasm for the team and his relationship with the coaching staff. However, Diggs dismissed all the rumors surrounding the Bills, declaring them irrelevant and ancient history.
Head coach Sean McDermott has expressed his support for Diggs, emphasizing that he believes the player is in an optimal position. In addition, quarterback Josh Allen mentioned that he and Diggs have been collaborating on certain aspects over the summer. There seems to be a renewed harmony among the team, and interestingly, Diggs' previous frustrations have unexpectedly contributed to his current success.
The start of training camp for the Dallas Cowboys in Southern California brought a mixture of jubilation and apprehension. News emerged that corner Trevon Diggs, brother of Stefon Diggs, signed a substantial 5-year contract worth $97 million. As a result, he now stands as the fifth highest paid corner in the NFL on an annual basis.
The Cowboys front office was privileged to have this program tailor-made, all thanks to another All-Pro. Zack Martin, the right guard, opted not to attend training camp this week. Rumor has it that he is trying to extend his current contract. Martin is currently making an impressive $13.5 million in 2023, while still having two more years left on his existing contract.
He is very likely on the verge of reaching a remarkable milestone by surpassing the $20 million threshold, thus securing the position of being the most generously compensated player within his category.
Martin's absence from camp will result in daily fines of $50,000, as will any other player who fails to attend. While Martin's career accolades include being named All-Pro once every nine years, he legitimately deserves a substantial salary. However, the Cowboys are relying heavily on Martin's total commitment to ensure the success of quarterback Dak Prescott this season.