We’re just a few weeks post-Super Bowl 59, but the buzz surrounding the 2025 NFL season is already palpable. With the NFL Combine wrapping up at the end of February, fans are eagerly anticipating where this year’s rookie class will land during the upcoming NFL Draft.
Nestled perfectly between the Combine and the Draft is the exhilarating realm of NFL free agency. This is the time when veteran players eyeing new contracts dive into negotiations, determining whether they’ll continue with their current teams or seek opportunities with different franchises.
For fans, free agency isn’t just a formality; it offers a compelling preview of what their favorite teams might look like come September. As teams prepare to retool and refocus, let’s take a closer look at some crucial dates and key questions that define this electrifying phase of the NFL offseason.
When Does NFL Free Agency Begin?
Mark your calendars for March 12 at 4 p.m. EST. This signifies the official start of free agency, ushering in the new league year and a fresh slate for all 32 teams. It’s a pivotal moment when players can officially ink new deals, but the action starts even earlier.
Prior to the signing period, teams enter a “legal tampering” window beginning on March 10. This two-day lead-up allows teams to interact with free agents, discuss potential contracts, and pitch their visions. While players can’t officially sign until March 12, don’t be surprised if rumors of agreements start swirling during this negotiation window.
Key NFL Free Agency Dates to Note:
- March 10: Legal Tampering Period kicks off at noon EST.
- March 12: Official Free Agency opens at 4 p.m. EST.
- April 18: Deadline for restricted free agents to sign offer sheets.
- May 1: Final date for teams to exercise the fifth-year option on players from the 2022 NFL Draft.
This period is not only critical for shaping rosters but also sets the stage for which teams will potentially rise and which may struggle in the upcoming season. Free agency heralds a season of hope and anticipation—a time when teams, players, and fans all look to the future in the NFL landscape. As we gear up for significant moves and player signings, the drama and excitement promise to unfold beautifully in the coming weeks. Stay tuned; there’s plenty more to come!
