2021 NFL offseason dates to know for free agency

Agent's Take: 2021 NFL offseason dates to know for free agency, contract options, franchise tags and more

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Here's a look at key offseason dates running through the first week of the 2021 league year, which begins on March 17. Some dates have league-wide importance.

Other dates can potentially affect specific player contracts and the salary cap of individual teams because they are crucial to the timing of contract restructures, pay cuts and players being released.

Notable players have been highlighted on the appropriate date with how the event is specified in their respective contracts. Less heralded players are only mentioned on dates without a lot of activity.

Feb. 23
(22nd day before start of 2021 League Year)

NFL: The 15-day period where teams can designate franchise or transition players begins.

March 9
(8 days prior to start of 2021 League Year)

NFL: The period for designating franchise or transition players ends at 4 p.m. Eastern Time.

March 15-17
NFL: Teams are allowed to negotiate with the agents of prospective unrestricted free agents during a two-day period beginning March 15 at noon Eastern Time and ending at 4 p.m. ET on March 17.

In the two-day window, prospective unrestricted free agents can't visit teams or have direct contact with team employees, except those from their current clubs. A player's ability to re-sign with his current club isn't affected by the rule.

The negotiating period does not apply to unsigned players receiving restricted free agent, franchise or transition tenders.

March 17
(2020 League Year ends at 4 p.m. Eastern Time; first day of 2021 League Year begins)

NFL: The top 51 begins. Only the top 51 salaries (i.e.; cap numbers), including unsigned franchise, transition, restricted free agent and exclusive-rights tenders on a team count against the salary cap during the offseason.

All teams must be under the salary cap prior to 4 p.m. Eastern Time..

NFL: The 2021 League Year and free agency begin at 4 p.m. Eastern Time.

NFL: The trading period begins at 4 p.m. Eastern Time.

Lions-Rams: Trade between teams involving Matthew Stafford and Jared Goff becomes official.

March 18
(Day 2 of 2021 League Year)

Rams: Quarterback Jared Goff's fully guaranteed $2.5 million 2021 League Year roster bonus is due. He will be traded to the Lions when the 2021 League Year begins on March 17.

[www.cbssports.com]