When can players start being signed in the 2008 free agency signing period?
A — Beginning at 12:01 AM ET on Friday, February 29. Q — What are the categories of free agency? A — Players are either “restricted” or “unrestricted” free agents. Within the categories are also “transition” and “franchise” players. Q — What is the time period for free agency signings this year? A — For restricted free agents, from Feb. 29 to April 25; for unrestricted free agents, from Feb. 29 to July 22 (or the first scheduled day of the first NFL training camp, whichever is later); and for franchise players, from March 2 through the 10th week of the season (November 13). Q — What is the difference between a restricted free agent and an unrestricted free agent? A — Players become restricted free agents when they complete three accrued seasons and their contract expires. Unrestricted free agents have completed four or more accrued seasons with an expired contract. Q — What constitutes an “accrued season?” A — Six or more regular-season games on a club’s active/inactive, reser
