Multiple NFL Stars Skip Voluntary OTAs Amid Contract, Trade Uncertainties

Several prominent NFL players, including Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins, tight end Kyle Pitts, and Buffalo Bills running back James Cook, were notably absent from their teams' voluntary OTAs. Cousins, who was benched last season, is rumored to be seeking a trade and has missed recent workouts, fueling speculation about his desire to start elsewhere. Kyle Pitts, entering the final year of his rookie contract, also skipped the Falcons' first OTA, raising questions given his past production and the team's expectations for his upcoming season. Meanwhile, James Cook, who has posted over 1,200 scrimmage yards in consecutive seasons, is holding out to negotiate a new contract, aiming for a deal that would place him among the highest-paid running backs. These absences highlight ongoing contract negotiations and player dissatisfaction with current situations as the teams prepare for the 2025 NFL season. Attendance at OTAs remains voluntary, but these high-profile absences are drawing significant attention and speculation about players' futures.