The NFL’s elite sack leader is "holding in" at training camp, limiting his participation to secure a lucrative extension that reflects his dominant defensive production and leverage.
The Los Angeles Chargers have a contract situation on their hands. Star outside linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu started Chargers training camp by, "holding in."
For those unfamiliar with the new term, holding in simply means a player is attending practice but limiting participation until a contract is reached. Tuipulotu wants to make it clear that he does not want to play on a contract that does not pay him what he is worth.
So, what is Tuipulotu worth? Perhaps it all depends on how much a team values a 13.0 sack, 49.0 total tackle season.
Tuipulotu was easily one of the NFL's best pass rushers finishing No. 6 in the league in sacks. Certainly, he's deserving of a pay raise. Tuipulotu and the Chargers are working to find a contract with which they can both agree.
ESPN NFL insider and Chargers reporter Kris Rhim shared an update on Tuipulotu and his contract situation. Here's some of what Rhim reported on the last two days of July.
"July 31 update: Tuipulotu continued not to practice amid ongoing contract negotiations Friday. He went through individual drills, worked off to the side with a trainer and watched practice.
July 30 update: The Chargers outside linebacker did not practice Thursday for the second straight day amid ongoing contract negotiations, but he did more on-field work with teammates than on the opening day of camp. Tuipulotu wore a helmet and jersey Thursday and went through individual drills with the team before working off to the side with a trainer. On Wednesday, he was in a T-shirt and shorts and worked off to the side with a trainer."
Dec 14, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu (45) pressures Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) during the fourth quarter at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn ImagesWorth noting, Rhim did add that Tuipulotu is participating in some parts of practice and not skipping in its entirety. With a real risk of injury, opting to wait to go 100% until a deal is done and not risk jeopardizing his next contract is another reason the Chargers star may be sitting.
Tuipulotu has the leverage. NFL careers are short and his value is high in the present. He's using that leverage to get another contract.
What seems clear is that the Chargers are at their best when Tuipulotu is on the field. And while first round draft pick Akheem Mesidor brings a high upside at edge coming from Miami, Tuipulotu is the player of the two who has done it in the NFL.
We will continue to monitor the Chargers' contract talks as they look to bring back their elite pass rusher for the 2026 season and more.
