NFL 2024 offseason guide: Key dates for the new league year

After 285 games, the NFL offseason is here. But it is not a quiet time for the 32 teams. There are plenty of significant stages in the offseason. Here is DAZN's guide to the 2024 NFL offseason.

February 20: Franchise Tag date

This date is the first point that teams can re-sign or offer franchise tag offers to eligible players. The Franchise Tag is a one-year deal based on an average salary for a respective position. 

February 29 - March 3: NFL Scouting Combine

The end of February sees Indianapolis host the NFL Scouting Combine. This is one of the significant pre-draft events. All teams go to Indianapolis to interview NFL prospects and see prospective rookies participate in various physical and mental exercises. 

March 5: Franchise Tag designation deadline

If teams are to place players on the Franchise Tag, they must do so by this date. 

March 13: New league year and free agency begin

Officially, the new league year begins on March 13. Free agents can also sign contracts with teams from this date onwards. However, free agents can enter talks with teams on March 11. 

March 24 - March 27: Annual league meeting

Head coaches, owners, league officials and other representatives meet in Florida. They will discuss any new rules, future Super Bowl host cities and other league developments. 

April 15: Offseason workouts

Teams can re-open their training facilities for returning players on this date. Player participation is voluntary, and workouts are gym and classroom-based. 

April 19: Restricted free agent deadline

Restricted free agents have until this date to sign offer sheets with their respective teams.

April 25 - April 27: 2024 NFL Draft

Detroit hosts this year's NFL Draft. It is a three-day process as teams reload their rosters with the latest college prospects.

May 2: Fifth year option deadline

Teams must decide if they pick up the fifth-year option on their eligible players.

May 3-6 or May 10-13: Rookie minicamp

Teams will call up their drafted rookies for a minicamp. Players will go through training sessions, learn the playbooks and acclimatize to their new NFL surroundings.