Key NFL Offseason Dates for 2024

As the Kansas City Chiefs bask in the glory of their second consecutive Super Bowl victory, the rest of the NFL is already gearing up for the 2024 season. The offseason is a crucial time for teams to reassess their rosters, coaching staff, and strategies, all in pursuit of dethroning the reigning champions. In this article, we'll highlight the key dates and events that will shape the NFL landscape in the months leading up to the 2024 campaign.

The franchise/transition tag window opens on February 20, allowing teams to use their franchise or transition tags on players. The deadline for teams to apply these tags is 4 p.m. ET on March 5.

The 2024 NFL Combine will take place from February 26 to March 4 in Indianapolis, where prospects will showcase their talents and undergo rigorous evaluations. 
Here's the on-field workout schedule (EST):

- February 29, 3 p.m. ET: Defensive linemen, linebackers
- March 1, 3 p.m. ET: Defensive backs, tight ends
- March 2, 1 p.m. ET: Quarterbacks, wide receivers, running backs
- March 3, 1 p.m. ET: Offensive linemen

The legal tampering period, a crucial part of the NFL's free agency process, runs from noon on March 11 to 4 p.m. on March 13. During this time, unrestricted free agents are permitted to communicate directly with other teams' front office officials (excluding coaches) regarding contract negotiations. While deals cannot be officially signed until the new league year begins, this period sets the stage for free agency frenzy. The 2024 league year officially opens at 4 p.m. ET on March 13, allowing teams to sign free agents and complete trades.

The annual NFL league meeting, where team owners and executives gather to discuss league matters, will take place from March 24-27 in Orlando, Florida. Expect news about potential rule changes and other league matters to emerge from this gathering, as 32 billionaires in one place can make a lot happen. 

Teams with a first-year head coach can begin their offseason workout programs on April 1, while teams with a returning head coach can start their programs on April 15.

April 17 is the deadline for NFL Draft prospects to meet at team facilities. On April 19, restricted free agents must decide whether or not to sign their offer sheets. April 24 marks the deadline for teams to match offer sheets for any restricted free agents and for all draft prospect meetings at any location.

The 2024 NFL Draft will take place in Detroit, Michigan, from April 25-27. Round 1 will be held on April 25, Rounds 2-3 on April 26, and Rounds 4-7 on April 27. This event provides teams with an opportunity to replenish their rosters with fresh talent.

Teams must exercise the fifth-year option for players selected in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft by May 2. Rookie mini-camps will take place on either May 3-6 or May 10-13, depending on the team.

As the offseason progresses, teams will continue to shape their rosters and prepare for the upcoming season through organized team activities (OTAs), training camp openings, and more. Stay tuned for updates on the NFL schedule release and other key events leading up to the 2024 campaign.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the NFL offseason promises to be a whirlwind of activity, with each date and event potentially altering the league's landscape. Teams and challengers can change at any moment. Mark your calendars and get ready for an exhilarating journey toward the 2024 season kickoff.