From Chris Jones to Jonathan Taylor: NFL Players who may miss the start of the season because of contract disputes

#ChrisJones #JonathanTaylor #KansasCityChiefs

NFL stars Chris Jones and Jonathan Taylor face uncertainties for the season opener due to contract disputes and injuries
Jones seeks a more lucrative deal, while Taylor's trade request remains unresolved
The absence of these key players could impact their teams' Super Bowl aspirations

Written By:Rohit Yadav

Updated: September 06 2023 11:41:03 PM ET

As the NFL’s opening week dawns, the spotlight usually shines brightly on the league’s stars, but this year, some notable names could be missing in action when the season kicks off.

Chris Jones

The defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs are one team grappling with the absence of a key player. Defensive tackle Chris Jones, who was pivotal in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl victory last season with 15 1/2 sacks, has been absent from training camp and preseason games in pursuit of a more lucrative contract. Entering the final year of a four-year, $80 million deal, Jones has incurred significant fines for his extended absence.

Jonathan Taylor

While Chiefs fans hope for a resolution, the Indianapolis Colts are dealing with a different scenario. Star running back Jonathan Taylor, who led the NFL in rushing yards in 2021, is set to miss the first month of the season. The Colts placed him on the physically unable to perform list due to an ankle injury after his trade request went unfulfilled.

Also Read: Travis Kelce injury update: How long is Kansas City TE out?

Colts general manager Chris Ballard remains uncertain about Taylor’s return, leaving the running back drama lingering in Indianapolis.

Brian Burns

As these holdouts and uncertainties unfold, the Carolina Panthers are dealing with their own contract stalemate. Outside linebacker Brian Burns, a two-time Pro Bowler with 38 sacks in four seasons, has been absent from practice sessions, raising questions about his availability for the upcoming game against the Atlanta Falcons. Burns, set to earn $16 million this season, is entering the final year of his contract.

While the Colts and Panthers may not be considered elite teams at the moment, the Chiefs are Super Bowl contenders. The absence of key players like Jones could significantly impact their Super Bowl aspirations. A slow start due to his absence could make the road to Super Bowl 58 even more challenging for the star-studded Chiefs.

Also Read: Cooper Kupp injury status: Is Rams WR ruled out against Seahawks?

In the world of professional sports, contract disputes and holdouts are not new. Thirty years ago, the Dallas Cowboys faced a similar predicament with Emmitt Smith, which eventually ended in Smith becoming the highest-paid running back and helping the Cowboys secure another Super Bowl victory.