Franchise Quarterbacks Missing Offseason Training Camps: What You Need to Know About the Financial Implications for Their Future Contracts

In recent years, many franchise quarterbacks have opted to skip voluntary offseason training camps (OTAs). However, there is a valid reason behind their absence. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, for example, has a legitimate excuse for missing these workouts. Upon closer examination of his 2023 contract, it was discovered that he has annual offseason workout bonuses of $750,000.

To be eligible for these bonuses, Jackson must participate in 80 percent of the offseason workouts, excluding mandatory minicamp. Unfortunately, he has already missed too many workouts to earn the $750,000 this year. Similar bonuses are also in place for 2025, 2026, and 2027.

Initially, it was believed that these payments were offseason roster bonuses. However, they are actually workout bonuses. Missing out on this bonus will result in a reduction of his 2024 compensation from $32.5 million to $31.75 million. While this may not seem like a significant decrease in his total pay, losing $750,000 is still a substantial amount of money that cannot be recovered.

In conclusion, while franchise quarterbacks may choose to miss voluntary OTAs for various reasons, it is important to note that missing these workouts can have financial consequences for the player’s future contracts.