NFL Free Agency: Legal Tampering Period Begins, What to Know

The NFL’s free agency period officially kicks off with a 52-hour legal tampering period on Monday, March 9, 2026, before the new league year begins on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 . This period allows teams to negotiate with agents of unrestricted free agents, setting the stage for a flurry of activity.

What is the Legal Tampering Period?

The legal tampering period, implemented in 2012, provides a window for teams to begin contract negotiations with prospective free agents through their agents . Prior to this, teams were engaging in pre-free agency contact, leading to the formalization of this period.

Key Rules During Legal Tampering

• Agent-Only Contact: Teams are permitted to negotiate only with the player’s agent during this period. Direct contact with players is prohibited .
• No Signatures: Whereas agreements can be reached, no contracts can be officially signed until the start of the new league year on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 4 p.m. ET .
• Potential for Discipline: Teams found to have contacted players directly or negotiated before the tampering period can face penalties, including fines or the loss of draft picks .

Recent Moves and Activity

As of Monday, March 9, 2026, several deals have been agreed to, though they are not yet official. Wide receiver Alec Pierce reportedly agreed to return to the Indianapolis Colts, while the New England Patriots secured defensive end Dre’Mont Jones with a 3-year, $39.5 million deal, including $14.5 million in the first season . The Patriots also reportedly agreed to terms with Buffalo Bills fullback Reggie Gilliam (three years, up to $12 million with $6 million guaranteed) and lost tight end Austin Hooper to the Atlanta Falcons . Defensive lineman Khyiris Tonga is heading to the Kansas City Chiefs on a three-year, $21 million deal with $14 million guaranteed .

Notable Free Agents

Top free agents entering the 2026 offseason include wide receiver George Pickens, running back Breece Hall, quarterback Malik Willis, center Tyler Linderaum, and Super Bowl MVP running back Kenneth Walker .

Looking Ahead

The next 48 hours will be crucial as teams finalize deals before the official start of free agency on Wednesday. Expect a continued stream of reports and announcements as teams reshape their rosters for the 2026 season.