The 2023 NFL Draft feels like it’s been concluded years ago, when it was just months. Nonetheless, while the vast majority of drafted players now turn their attention to their first training camps as professional athletes, there are still a few, and I mean a few, players who remain unsigned.

Three to be exact.

As of this article being written, only three rookies have yet to sign their rookie contracts. They are:

• Devon Witherspoon
• Joey Porter Jr.
• Zach Charbonnet

Remaining unsigned 2023 Draft picks:

Devon Witherspoon
Joey Porter Jr.
Zach Charbonnet

— Brad Spielberger, Esq. (@PFF_Brad) July 24, 2023

At this point, many are wondering what is the hold up for these players to sign their contracts. While someone like Witherspoon, a 1st Round pick, could be waiting to get more guaranteed money in his rookie deal, something many who were drafted ahead of him have been receiving, it likely is just a matter of time until he signs.

The tough pick to understand is the Steelers 2nd Round pick Joey Porter Jr.

As you just read, Porter Jr. was a 2nd round pick, but was the 32nd selection in the draft, typically the last selection in the first round. However, when the Miami Dolphins forfeited their first round pick the 32nd pick became the first selection of Round 2.

It isn’t Porter’s fault the Dolphins lost their pick, but at the same time the Steelers selected him knowing he was a 2nd Round pick. There is a difference in base pay, per the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), for a 1st Round pick and a 2nd Round pick. Is Porter jockeying for more money? Or is he looking for guarantees in his first professional contract?

With most teams reporting to training camp today, or in the Pittsburgh Steelers case tomorrow, you would think these rookies would be figuring out the financials so they can sign and be on the field from Day 1.

Be sure to check back with FFSN to see if/when these players sign, and who might be holding out of training camp to get a better deal for themselves.