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The 2024 NFL offseason is well underway, with big names hitting the open market, trade rumors circulating and free agency just around the corner. But why are some players free to sign with new teams now, while others have to wait? How can a prospective trade be negotiated without being finalized? And what’s the deal with the “tampering period?”
We’re glad you asked. Here’s everything you need to know about key free agency terms:
What is free agency?
Free agency is the period during which players with expiring contracts can freely negotiate and sign with other teams. It’s also when teams can officially trade players or draft picks to other teams.
How does it work?
Free agency occurs in what you might call two phases: Phase I is referred to as the “legal tampering period.” Phase II is the official start of free agency. Confused? Don’t worry; this is how each phase works:
Legal tampering period: This is when any player with an expiring contract is permitted to communicate with and/or negotiate a contract with all 32 teams through certified representation (an agent).Free agency: This is when players and teams can also officially finalize a negotiated contract.
The only exception: Players are always permitted to speak with and finalize contracts with their current team. If this occurs before the legal tampering or free agency periods, other clubs are no longer permitted contact.
When does it start?
The legal tampering period begins March 11 at 12 p.m. ET. Starting then, any player with an expiring contract can begin speaking with other teams through their representation. A good portion of the highest-profile free agents usually agree to terms on contracts during this period, though deals are not official — and, on rare occasions, may not come to fruition — until …
Free agency officially begins March 13 at 4 p.m. ET. This means that any contract negotiated during the legal tampering period…
Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-free-agency-explainer-when-does-signing-period-start-why-can-some-players-change-teams-now/
Author : Cody Benjamin
Publish date : 2024-03-07 21:03:08
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