2025 NFL Free Agency
Learn more about NFL free agency and the terms that apply to the annual process.
NFL free agency is one of the most exciting and impactful periods of the offseason, shaping the league's competitive landscape for the year ahead.
As clubs strategize to improve their rosters and as players move between teams, you might have questions about how the process works and how the rules influence the decisions that are made.
Whether you're a lifelong NFL fan or new to the intricacies of building a roster, these pages will provide the insights you need to follow every negotiation, signing, trade, and release with confidence.
We’ve got it all covered, from a glossary of definitions for the various types of free agents, including restricted and unrestricted, to explanations of the contract language and financial mechanisms that teams use, including franchise and transition tags.
We’ll also detail the history of the salary cap and the evolution of free agency for greater context about how the current system came to be.
Understanding all of these factors will sharpen your perspective on the front-office strategies that drive the league's storylines and deepen your appreciation for the daunting task of chasing a championship.
NFL Football Operations’ mission is to establish a culture of clarity, consistency and credibility in all aspects of the greatest game. Football is an essential piece of America’s fabric, uniting fans, players and communities with a simple yet powerful bond. We honor the game’s history while continuing to innovate and preserve the sport for future generations of fans, players, coaches, teams and officials.
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