The Patriots and Mack Hollins revised 2026 incentives, raising reception thresholds to 47/50/55 and shifting payouts into 2027; with Hollins at a Week 1 pace of 4 catches, a 68‑reception season could trigger the full $1 million, now counted against the 2027 cap.
OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman has committed to massive compute spending through billion-dollar deals with tech giants, risking financial instability. Despite the company's projected revenue of $20 billion in 2023, the commitments could require revenue growth to $577 billion by 2029, which is highly unlikely. Altman, who claims he has no financial stake in the company, is unlikely to face personal consequences if OpenAI cannot meet its obligations, as most contracts are renegotiable or contingent on usage. The company's future depends on whether it can generate enough revenue or renegotiate its contracts, with potential risks including bankruptcy or acquisition.
Steelers' veteran Cameron Heyward, seeking a contract extension and feeling undervalued, has indicated he might sit out games into the season if his demands are not met, amid ongoing negotiations with the team.
The New Orleans Saints and Tyrann Mathieu are close to finalizing a renegotiated contract as the team works to address its current salary cap situation. By restructuring Mathieu's contract, the Saints can achieve greater cap savings this year, although it may result in a larger cap charge next year. This approach has been a recurring strategy for the Saints, allowing short-term relief but potentially limiting long-term planning for the team.
Cincinnati Bengals running back Joe Mixon has agreed to a pay cut, accepting a new deal that will pay him a base salary of just under $6 million with incentives that could earn him up to $8 million this season. Mixon's decision comes as running backs face financial challenges in the league, and he opted to re-work his contract to avoid a similar fate as Dalvin Cook and Ezekiel Elliott, who were released from their expensive contracts and are currently free agents. Mixon, a second-round draft pick in 2017, had 210 carries for 814 yards and seven touchdowns last year.
The New York Jets are reportedly in the process of renegotiating Aaron Rodgers' contract after acquiring him in a trade. This has raised questions about the future of young quarterback Zach Wilson, who the Jets may have mishandled according to former OC Mike LaFleur and GM Joe Douglas. The team is also relying on young prospects to break out in two positions. Other news includes analysis of the Jets' 2023 schedule, draft picks, and a labeled draft bust as an "X-Factor" for the upcoming season.
The New York Jets are renegotiating Aaron Rodgers' contract, which he had previously restructured before being traded to the team. The Jets are looking to provide Rodgers with a better supporting cast to increase his chances of success, while also planning their long-term cap outlook. The renegotiation will allow the team to have extra maneuverability and retain All-Pro players like Quinnen Williams. While Rodgers has not verbally committed to playing for the Jets beyond 2023, the general expectation is that he will play in New York for more than one season.
Detroit Lions and Charles Harris have agreed to a renegotiated contract, saving $2.82 million in 2023 cap space, and all but assuring he will remain with the team this upcoming season. The new deal will almost assuredly mean Harris' spot on the roster is safer. Harris' $6 million salary has dropped to $3 million, while the Lions have given the opportunity to earn some of that back with up to $250,000 in roster bonuses.