When does NFL free agency start? Legal tampering rules explained

You’re likely to start seeing headlines before the NFL free agency period technically starts. Before the new league year opens, the NFL allows a “legal tampering period”, a window when teams can negotiate with the agents of unrestricted free agents.

Here’s how it works.

When does legal tampering start?

The legal tampering period begins two days before the new league year. This year, it opens on Monday, March 9.

The new league year, when contracts can officially be signed, begins on March 11.

During legal tampering, teams can negotiate contract terms with agents and agreements can be reported, but deals cannot be formally signed. No contracts become official until the new league year begins.

In reality, most major deals are agreed upon during this window. That’s why free agency feels like it starts early. By the time March 11 arrives, many top free agents already have handshake agreements in place.

Why it’s called “legal tampering”

Before this rule existed, teams frequently contacted agents early, unofficially. The NFL formalized the process to create structure and transparency. Now, tampering is allowed, but only within a designated window.

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