The NFL’s annual free agency signing window officially begins at the start of the new league year, but teams are allowed to negotiate terms with agents for two days beforehand, known as the legal tampering period.
Teams can agree to deals, but players can’t officially sign contracts until free agency opens. Starting next year, though, teams will have expanded contact with prospective signings.
Ahead of league meetings in Florida this week, the Steelers proposed a rule change allowing teams to conduct phone or video calls directly with players during the legal tampering period. That proposal was approved, per Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer. Starting in 2026, teams can have one call with up to five unrestricted free agents during the legal tampering period.
The new rule also allows teams to make travel arrangements for players that agree to terms, per FOX Sports’ Greg Auman.
Like the institution of the legal tampering period in 2012, the rule change codifies a practice that was already taking place, according to Breer. The Falcons were docked a 2025 fifth-round pick for direct contact with free agents in 2024, but it is believed that other violations have not been caught.
One former general manager believes that the new rule will give an advantage to coaches who are “great recruiters” like Andy Reid, Sean McVay, and Mike Tomlin.
“This rule will benefit them and anyone who can emulate their approach when it comes to landing top free agents,” the GM said (via FOX Sports’ Jordan Schultz).
The rule change will take effect in 2026 for a one-year trial period as the league considers making it permanent.
Falcons should get our pick back this year.