2022 NFL Training Camp: Players holding out/in for new contracts
NFL players holding out at camp: DK Metcalf, WR, Seahawks
DK Metcalf is another hold “in”, and this one that we definitely expected. Metcalf was noticeably absent from mandatory minicamp earlier this offseason.
While he did arrive at training camp this week he is also on the sideline not working out with his team who remain on the field. Head coach Pete Carroll discussed the star receiver standing his ground for now;
"“We’re working, and I don’t have any update for you, but we’re working,” Carroll said of Metcalf’s ongoing contract negotiations during a July 27 press conference. “…We were hoping so [a deal would be done by the start of training camp]. We shot for it, but we’re right there now and there’s a lot of work being done, like right now.”"
Metcalf, similar to Deebo, is not a top-tier wide receiver but given his skill set and performances, he feels he has outgrown his rookie contract.
For Metcalf, he is entering the final year of his rookie deal which provides him with a salary of $3,986,000 with a signing bonus of $338,827.
Metcalf was actually expected to hold out of camp completely given his contract is aligned with that of a player drafted at the end of the second round of the draft, not someone of Metcalf’s prowess that clearly should have been a first-round pick.
Metcalf is also dealing with the change in quarterback, going from Russell Wilson to Drew Lock/Geno Smith.
This is a situation where the masses may sympathize with Metcalf and the Seahawks are going to have to do their best to get their weapon back on the field.