On Wednesdays, the excitement of Organized Team Activities (OTAs) unfolds across the NFL, but this week, it’s accompanied by news of player holdouts. Recently, it was revealed that San Francisco 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk is opting out of OTAs as he awaits a new contract offer from his team. This move has sparked discussions about player negotiations and the potential implications for team dynamics as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Aiyuk isn’t isolated in this trend of holdouts. Notable names such as Justin Jefferson from the Vikings, CeeDee Lamb of the Cowboys, Tee Higgins from the Bengals, Courtland Sutton of the Broncos, and Cameron Heyward, a defensive tackle for the Steelers, are among those who have also chosen to skip the initial OTAs. This pattern raises questions about player commitment and financial negotiations in the league, especially as teams look to finalize their rosters.

While we haven’t yet observed the Detroit Lions’ OTAs, they seem to be in a different situation altogether. Over the past month, the Lions have successfully navigated significant contract negotiations, securing long-term deals for key players like Jared Goff at quarterback, Amon-Ra St. Brown at receiver, and offensive tackle Penei Sewell. By addressing these contracts proactively, the Lions not only position themselves favorably in a competitive market but also enable their players to focus solely on preparing for the upcoming football season.

It’s important to note that participation in OTAs, while not the ultimate measure of a team’s success, offers valuable opportunities for player development. These practices occur without full pads and live contact, yet they provide a crucial environment for players to build chemistry and refine their skills. The Lions organization has prioritized acquiring players who are eager to engage in practice, recognizing that even limited participation can foster team cohesion and enhance performance on the field.

Although OTA attendance is technically voluntary, the Lions place a strong emphasis on the importance of participation. During the inaugural year of the Dan Campbell coaching era, amid the challenges posed by the COVID pandemic, more than 80 players out of a 90-man roster attended OTAs, showcasing their commitment to the team’s objectives and their desire to improve collectively.

“To me, that sends a message loud and clear that at least they’ve taken the first step,” Campbell remarked back in 2021. “They’ve taken the first step, and that tells us as coaches that they are committed.” This statement reflects the culture of accountability and dedication that the Lions have cultivated under Campbell’s leadership.

In 2022, the Lions maintained their impressive attendance, with only a small number of players absent at the start of OTAs. In 2023, they once again reported with over 80 players present, reinforcing their commitment to teamwork and preparation as they gear up for the season ahead.

From an external perspective, the absence of certain players from OTAs may not seem significant, yet it is evident that the Lions organization underscores the value of these practice sessions. Kudos to players like Goff, St. Brown, and Sewell for securing their contracts ahead of time, thus avoiding potential distractions and ensuring a unified focus as the team prepares for the challenges of the upcoming season.