I’m sure this is out there somewhere but here’s a quick reference in case you needed some dates on your calendar for when to expect the heavy stuff to come this offseason. The offseason is long and sometimes really boring, so of course it’s fun to look ahead and have dates to look forward to:
NOW: The waiver period has already begun. So at any point, starting now, you will potentially see veteran players getting waived, especially if they have big salaries.
Feb 16: First day you can designate a player for the franchise or transition tag. The Saints will not use this this year.
Feb 17-23: NFL Combine
March 2: Deadline for Franchise/Transition tag designation
March 7-10: Teams can enter into negotiations with free agents but they cannot sign anyone until 4pm on March 10th
March 10: Free agency starts at 4pm
Some things to remember:
- The league calendar year starts on this day
- Teams must submit qualifying offers to their Restricted Free Agents if they want to keep a Right of First Refusal/Compensation.
- Top-51 for salary cap purposes kicks in. All teams must be under the 2015 salary cap.
- Teams can begin to discuss and make trades.
March 22-25: Annual league meetings in Phoenix
April 20: Saints may begin offseason workout programs.
April 24: Deadline for Restricted Free Agents (RFAs) to sign offer sheets with other teams.
April 30-May 2: NFL Draft
May 8 through 18: Mini camp can begin in this time period
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