As the 2015 NFL league year approaches, here's a preview of key dates in the league calendar.
March 7-10: NFL teams are permitted to contact and enter into contract negotiations with the agents of players who will become unrestricted free agents (Mar. 10). A contract can't be signed until the new league year begins, though. Essentially it's a legal tampering period.
March 10: The 2015 league year begins at 4 p.m. All teams must be under the 2015 salary cap (only the top 51 cap figures count). Teams must submit qualifying offers to Restricted Free Agents and exercise options on players before 4 p.m. Free agency begins at start of new league year.
March 22-25: Annual owners meeting, Phoenix, AZ. `
April 6: Teams that hired a new coach can begin offseason workout programs. The league allows new coaches a two week jump in order to implement new systems, etc.
April 20: Clubs with returning head coaches can begin offseason workout programs.
April 24: Deadline for Restricted Free Agents to sign offer sheets.
April 29: Deadline for prior club to exercise Right of First Refusal to Restricted Free Agents.
April 30-May 2: Annual NFL draft. This year the event is held in Chicago, IL. The Patriots pick 32nd in the first round (Always fun to say that).
May 8-11: Teams can hold a three-day rookie minicamp.
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