What are the Key Dates for NFL Free Agency in 2026?
March 3: Prior to 1 p.m. PT, deadline for clubs to designate Franchise or Transition Players. March 11: Starting at 9 a.m. PT, free agent negotiating period begins. March 11: The 2026 League Year, free agency signing period, and trading period begin at 1 p.m. PT after expiration of all 2026 contracts. April 17: Deadline for restricted free agents to sign offer sheets. April 22: Deadline for prior club to exercise right of first refusal to restricted free agents who signed offer sheets. April 23-25: 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, PA.
Glossary
Unrestricted Free Agent (UFA): Any player with four or more accrued seasons or an expired contract; free to negotiate and sign with any team.
Restricted Free Agent (RFA): A player with three accrued seasons and an expired contract. RFAs are free to negotiate and sign with any team, but their original team can offer them one of various qualifying offers ("tenders") that come with the Right of First Refusal and/or draft-pick compensation. These amounts change by a minimum of five percent and a maximum of 10 percent (based on the salary cap) each league year.
Exclusive Rights Free Agent (ERFA): Any player with fewer than three accrued seasons and an expired contract. If his original team offers him a one-year contract and the league minimum (based on his credited seasons), the player cannot negotiate with other teams.
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