As the NFL offseason approaches, a series of crucial dates will begin to shape teams for the upcoming season. Here are some key dates that every fan should put on their calendar.
Feb. 18 to March 4: Window to Tag Franchise and Transition Players
The window to tag franchise and transition players is always a significant period. During this timeframe, teams can apply franchise or transition tags to keep their key players out of the unrestricted free agency pool. This year, that window opens on February 18 and closes on March 4.
March 10: Legal Tampering Period Begins
The legal tampering period starts on March 10. This period allows teams to reach out to the agents of prospective free agents to discuss contracts, even though deals cannot be finalized until later. "Usually, the first day of the legal tampering period is one of the busiest days on the NFL calendar," says a league insider.
March 12: Start of the New League Year and Free Agency
The NFL New League Year, which officially kicks off at 4 p.m. ET on March 12, marks the beginning of free agency. At this point, teams can sign new players and trades can become official. This date is one of the highlights of the offseason, as teams look to bolster their rosters through acquisitions.
April 7: Offseason Workouts for Teams with New Head Coaches
Teams with new head coaches get a head start on offseason workouts, beginning on April 7. This allows new coaching staffs to start implementing their systems and evaluating their rosters earlier than teams with returning head coaches.
April 21: Offseason Workouts for Teams with Returning Head Coaches
Teams with returning head coaches begin their offseason workouts on April 21. This period is critical for maintaining player conditioning and fine-tuning strategies before the fully padded practices of training camp.
April 24-26: 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay
One of the most anticipated events of the NFL offseason is the NFL Draft, which will take place from April 24 to April 26 in Green Bay in 2025. This is the time when the dreams of many young athletes come true, and teams look to find the cornerstone pieces for their future success.
Player Designations
Understanding player designations is crucial for grasping roster management in the NFL. Teams have a maximum number of designations they can use to return players from certain roster lists.
Designations during the Regular Season
During the regular season, each team can designate up to eight players to return from specific roster lists, such as the injured reserve. This rule allows teams to bring back pivotal players who recover from injuries during the season, adding much-needed depth and talent to the roster.
Postseason Designations
In the postseason, teams can designate an additional two players to return from these lists. This provision is especially valuable for teams looking to make a deep playoff run, as the ability to bring back key players can be a game-changer.
Limitations and Counts Against the Team's Allowance
A player can be designated to return a maximum of two times. Importantly, every designation counts against the team's total allowance. These rules necessitate strategic planning from front offices as they manage player availability throughout the season.
Quotes on Key Dates and the NFL Calendar
The legal tampering period marks a frantic period of negotiation and strategy. As one insider notes, "Usually, the first day of the legal tampering period is one of the busiest days on the NFL calendar." It's a time when rumors fly, and the groundwork is laid for deals that could transform franchises.
Another important date to consider is when teams can start applying franchise and transition tags. This year's Super Bowl will be played on Sunday, Feb. 9, just nine days before this window opens. Player performances in the Super Bowl can significantly influence tagging decisions, as teams seek to retain their valuable assets.
In summary, these key dates and regulations shape much of the NFL offseason. Whether it's applying tags, negotiating in the legal tampering period, or gearing up for the draft, each phase offers its own drama and intrigue. As fans prepare for the 2025 season, keeping these dates in mind will help them follow the evolving landscape of their favorite teams.
