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The confetti is ready, the champagne is chilled, and the noisemakers are set to go off. While it may not involve a ball drop or crowds in Times Square, the NFL’s new league year is a monumental occasion for football fans everywhere.
As the calendar flips, 2024 will fade into the rearview mirror, becoming a distant memory. Past achievements lose their weight, and every team starts fresh—zero wins, zero losses, and a clean slate.
You know the tune. Here’s everything you need to know about when and how to celebrate the NFL’s new league year in 2025.
When Does the NFL New League Year Begin?
The NFL’s new league year officially kicks off at 4 p.m. ET on March 12, 2025. This is the moment when teams can finalize signings, trades, and roster moves, setting the stage for the upcoming season.
From this point forward, the countdown to the 2025 regular season begins, with the NFL Draft just over a month away.
Key Dates for the 2025 NFL Offseason Calendar
The NFL offseason is packed with critical events that shape the future of every team. Here’s a breakdown of the most important dates:
- Franchise Tag Window Opens: February 18
- NFL Combine: February 24 to March 3
- Franchise Tag Window Closes: March 4
- NFL Legal Tampering Period Begins: March 10
- NFL Free Agency and New League Year: March 12
- NFL League Meetings: March 30 to April 2
- Offseason Workouts Begin (Teams with New Head Coaches): April 7
- Restricted Free Agent Offer Sheet Deadline: April 18
- Offseason Workouts Begin (Teams with Returning Head Coaches): April 21
- NFL Draft: April 24 to April 26
- Fifth-Year Option Deadline for 2022 First-Round Picks: May 1
- Rookie Minicamps: May 2-5 or May 9-12
- NFL Schedule Release: Mid-May
- Spring League Meeting: May 20 to May 21
- June 1 Cuts: June 1
- Franchise Tag Extension Deadline: July 15
- Training Camp Opens: Mid-to-Late July
- NFL Preseason Begins: Early August
What Happens During the New League Year?
The new league year marks the official start of free agency, allowing teams to sign unrestricted free agents and execute trades. It’s also when franchise-tagged players must either sign their tender or negotiate a long-term deal.
For fans, this is the time to see their favorite teams transform, whether through blockbuster signings, strategic trades, or draft preparations.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season
As the new league year begins, the excitement builds. Teams will finalize their rosters, rookies will prepare for their first NFL action, and the countdown to the regular season will be in full swing.
So, get ready to pop the champagne and celebrate—the NFL’s new league year is almost here, and with it comes a fresh start for every team and fan.
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