What does the term "holdout" refer to in the context of NFL players?

In the context of NFL players, the term "holdout" specifically refers to when a player does not participate in team activities until contract terms are resolved. This can occur during training camp or offseason activities and is typically a strategy used by players who are seeking better contract terms or who are unhappy with their current contract.

During a holdout, the player remains absent from practices and games, effectively leveraging their position to push for negotiations that may include higher salaries, guaranteed money, or better overall contract conditions. This action underscores the player's dissatisfaction and desire for a more favorable agreement and can sometimes lead to tensions between the player and the team's management.

Understanding the nature and implications of a holdout is essential for grasping contract negotiations and player-team dynamics in the NFL.