Key 2026 NFL Offseason Dates to Watch
The 2026 NFL offseason promises to be pivotal for many franchises aiming to enhance their rosters and coaching staff. Key dates have been established, marking important events that clubs must follow. The schedule details player evaluations, contract negotiations, and crucial deadlines.
Key 2026 NFL Offseason Dates to Watch
As teams prepare for the upcoming season, the following dates are significant for player movements and contract discussions:
- January 27: East-West Shrine Bowl at Ford Center, Frisco, Texas.
- January 31: Senior Bowl at Hancock Whitney Stadium, Mobile, Alabama.
- February 17 – March 3: Window to designate Franchise or Transition players.
- February 23 – March 2: NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Indiana.
- March 3: Deadline to designate Franchise or Transition players. Must be completed by 4 p.m. ET.
- March 9 – March 11: Negotiating period for unrestricted free agents begins.
- March 11: The 2026 League Year commences at 4 p.m. ET. Free agents may sign with any team.
- April 17: Deadline for restricted free agents to sign offer sheets.
- April 20: Clubs with returning head coaches can begin offseason workout programs.
- April 22: Deadline for exercising right of first refusal on restricted free agents.
- April 23 – 25: NFL Draft in Pittsburgh.
- May 1: Deadline to exercise Fifth-Year Option for first-round picks from the 2023 Draft.
- May 1 – 4 or May 8 – 11: Teams can hold a three-day post-Draft rookie minicamp.
This offseason will be critical for teams, especially as they look to build competitive rosters for the next NFL season. The combination of scouting events and contract negotiation periods will certainly shape the future of many franchises.
