The 2021 offseason is about to really ramp up. Starting this week, the NFL starts to offer more activity and deadlines for the 32 teams.
Here are some important upcoming dates to know for Lions fans up through the NFL draft.
Feb. 23: First day for clubs to designate franchise tag or transition tag players. The Lions have the potential to use a tag on WR Kenny Golladay or DE Romeo Okwara.
March 9: Teams have a 4 p.m. ET deadline to designate franchise tag or transition tag players.
March 15-17: Legal negotiating window before free agency, a.k.a the “legal tampering” period. This ends at 4 p.m. on March 17th.
March 17: The NFL league year officially ends at 4 p.m. ET. After that time, teams are free to sign free agents to new contracts. It also is the first time trades can be made, such as the agreed-upon deal between the Lions and the Rams.
April 5: Teams that have made a head coaching change are eligible to being offseason workout programs. This applies to the Lions. It is not mandatory and the exact dates are flexible.
April 19: Teams with returning head coaches may begin offseason workout programs.
April 23: Deadline for restricted free agents to sign offer sheets. The Lions have just one in 2021, CB Mike Ford.
April 28: Last day for clubs to match offer sheets for restricted free agents.
Apr. 29 through May 1: 2021 NFL Draft
