NFL Free Agency 2023: Check Out Dates, Latest Updates & Trading Rumors On Top Players

The 2023 NFL offseason is underway. This week, franchise tags can be put on players, and soon after that, free agency will start. Clubs may start talking with unsigned players on March 13, which is the formal start date for legal tampering; new contracts — including trades — can be inked on March 15.

The quarterback position is expected to rule the field as usual. The 2023 crop included a number of repeat Pro Bowlers, unlike the veteran market of the previous year, which was completed by Ryan Fitzpatrick and Mitchell Trubisky in the top five.

When does NFL free agency start in 2023?

  • Legal tampering period: March 13-15
  • Start of 2023 NFL free agency: 4 p.m. ET March 15

On Wednesday, March 15, the NFL’s new league year will begin at 4 p.m. ET. Free agency will start at the same time as normal.

But, during the two days before to free agency, teams “are authorised to contact, and engage into contract talks with, the certified agents of players who will become unrestricted free agents,” according to the NFL. On Monday, March 13, at 12 ET, the so-called “legal tampering window” will start to operate.

Before the start of free agency, teams must decide whether to deploy their franchise tag. The tag period runs from February 21 until March 7 at 4 p.m. EST. To prevent becoming a free agent, a player must be tagged before that point or accept a contract extension.

Other noteworthy events that will occur on March 15:

  • At 4 p.m. ET, all 2022 player contracts expire.
  • Prior to 4 p.m. ET, teams must be under the 2023 salary cap of $224.8 million (top-51 rule begins).
  • Prior to 4 p.m. ET, teams must exercise options for 2023 on all players who have option clauses in their 2022 contracts.
  • Prior to 4 p.m. ET, teams must submit qualifying offers to restricted free agents with expiring contracts in order to retain a right of first refusal/compensation.
  • Prior to 4 p.m. ET, teams must submit a minimum salary tender to retain exclusive negotiating rights to their players with expiring 2022 contracts who have fewer than three accrued seasons of free agency credit.
  • The first day of the 2023 league year will end at 11:59:59 p.m. ET on March 16. Teams receive a personnel notice that includes all transactions submitted to the league after 4 p.m. ET that day.

Top NFL free agents available in 2023

1. Lamar Jackson, QB, Ravens (age: 26)

The Ravens would prefer to keep their MVP quarterback, but they must agree to Jackson’s camp’s demands for specified conditions, value, and guaranteed money. A situation of tag-and-trade is also possible.

He still hasn’t established himself as a big-game quarterback and has now missed at least five games in back-to-back seasons due to injuries. Yet at 26 years old, with two seasons of 1,000-yard running, an MVP, and the ability to pass with the flick of the wrist, he possesses the game-changing power to justify a hefty investment.

2. Kaleb McGary, OT, Falcons (age: 27)

If the team decides to part ways with its right tackle, McGary, who had an outstanding run-blocking season in his big breakout season with Falcons, should fetch a top-of-market deal.

3. Daniel Jones, QB, Giants (age: 25)

The Giants must determine how much Jones is worth (between $30 million and $40 million), having declined to exercise his fifth-year option before his finest NFL season. Under Brian Daboll and Mike Kafka’s tutelage, Jones developed his passing and running rhythm despite having few weapons at his disposal. Long-term incarceration in New York is likely, but not a guarantee.

But, he showed in 2022 that he can lead a brash contender with the right assistance by winning the playoff game on the road. Theoretically, he still has potential that may be unlocked with stronger defence and weaponry.

4. Jason Kelce, C, Eagles (age: 35)

Depending on how his brother Travis’s opponent in Super Bowl 57 fared, there was a potential that Kelce may call it a career. If he doesn’t, he can still anchor a line at a high level in the middle.

5. Josh Jacobs, RB, Raiders (age: 24)

Jacobs topped the league with 393 touches and 2,053 yards from scrimmage in addition to winning the 2022 running title with 1,653 yards. He is a unique workhorse with little to no wear. He’s likely to remain in Las Vegas and continue to perform well in Josh McDaniels’ offence.

6. Dalvin Tomlinson, DT, Vikings (age: 28)

Tomlinson is a reliable run defender as well as one of the league’s most disruptive interior pass rushers.

7. Jessie Bates III, S, Bengals (age: 25)

Bates, a standout run-stopper who was franchise-tagged in 2023, won’t play for Cincinnati again. He is dependable in terms of coverage.

8. Geno Smith, QB, Seahawks (age: 32)

After being promoted to replace Russell Wilson, Smith enjoyed a Comeback Player of the Year season. The Seahawks would prefer to re-sign him to a fair salary, but he may also serve as a transitional player for a rookie.

9. Javon Hargrave, DT, Eagles (age: 29)

Hargrave’s responsibility is to advance and apply inside pressure on the quarterback. His 11 career sacks are proof that he performed so well throughout his three seasons in Philadelphia.

10. Lavonte David, ILB, Buccaneers (age: 33)

Even though David is towards the end of his career, he is still a capable playmaker. He can offer a lot of pop against the run and pass in addition to wise leadership.

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