The NFL is buzzing with activity as teams make critical decisions regarding their first-round draft picks from the 2022 class. In the business of football, the clock is ticking on the fifth-year options for these talented young players, a chance for teams to extend contracts for their promising athletes.
Every rookie drafted in the first round enters the league with four-year contracts, and teams can opt to keep players for a fifth year. The window for making these decisions opened on January 6 and runs until May 1. Among the 32 first-round selections, only Lewis Cine, the former Vikings safety, found himself ineligible for the option after being released before the 2024 season.
Recently, the Jacksonville Jaguars took action by exercising the fifth-year option on defensive end Travon Walker, which is projected to be around $14.75 million for the 2026 season. Following their lead, the Houston Texans signed Derek Stingley to a new three-year extension that guarantees his contract through 2029, showing confidence in his abilities on the field.
Meanwhile, there have been some notable trades involving players from this draft class. The Texans traded offensive lineman Kenyon Green to the Eagles, while wide receivers Jahan Dotson and Kenny Pickett also found new homes, strengthening Philly’s roster. Another player, Kaiir Elam, was traded to Dallas, wrapping up a busy offseason for many teams.
As for the Las Vegas Raiders, they are making headlines by releasing cornerback Jack Jones, a decision that adds to the list of changes for the organization. Additionally, the retirement of Terron Armstead, a top left tackle over the past decade, marks the end of an era for both the New Orleans Saints and Miami Dolphins.
Looking ahead, coach Todd Bowles of the Buccaneers expressed a need to bolster the team’s cornerback depth in the upcoming draft, highlighting that “everyone’s position is up for grabs.” On the other hand, the Tennessee Titans recently engaged with quarterback prospect Shedeur Sanders after a standout pro day, demonstrating their interest in reinforcing their roster.
With offseason programs ramping up and teams gearing up for the college draft, all eyes will be on how clubs utilize their young talent and make strategic moves to enhance their lineups for the upcoming season.
