The offseason kicks into gear with the Waiver Period opening on February 9. The franchise-tag window runs from February 17 through March 3, a period that often determines early ownership over pending free agents and can spark early negotiations with tagged players.
After the tag window closes, teams can begin formal talks in what Spotrac calls the Early Negotiating window, running March 9–11, just before the league year officially flips to 2026 on March 11. This window is critical for setting up longer-term plans and potential trades around key targets.
March also brings the Annual Meeting, set for March 29–April 1, a main league convening where front offices discuss rule changes, schedules, and other competitive considerations that impact the upcoming season. It’s a period that often influences front-office moves and strategy discussions across the league.
The calendar then highlights April 17 as the deadline for offer sheets involving restricted free agents, followed by the draft itself on April 23–25 in Las Vegas. Notably, the Las Vegas Raiders own the first overall pick this year, making the draft a focal point for teams looking to reset or accelerate their rebuilds.
Following the draft, attention shifts to May 1, when the fifth-year option deadline arrives, and May 19–20, the Spring Meetings, which continue to shape the strategic landscape for 2026. In particular, players drafted in 2023—such as Jalen Carter, Bijan Robinson, and Will Anderson—are expected to have their fifth-year options scrutinized for affordability and long-term fit.
Beyond June, Spotrac’s calendar notes additional dates will be announced as the offseason progresses. The main takeaways for fans are clear: franchise tags, the draft, and fifth-year options will drive the initial rhythm of the 2026 NFL offseason, with the Raiders’ top pick and potential option decisions likely to set early narratives.
