2024 NFL offseason: Key dates for the Ravens to know ahead of free agency
The 2024 NFL offseason is officially underway after the Chiefs’ 25-22 win over the 49ers in Super Bowl LVIII from Las Vegas.
The league will take the next month to catch its breath, but the slowdown won’t last long, as potential free agents will face the franchise tag, and all 32 teams will head to Indianapolis for the NFL Scouting Combine at the end of February.
With the Bears now on the clock, we’re looking at critical dates for the Baltimore Ravens and 31 other teams ahead of free agency.
Feb. 20
Beginning this date through 4:00 p.m., New York time on March 5, clubs may designate Franchise or Transition Players.
Justin Madubuike and Patrick Queen are the two Ravens free agents who could be tagged.
Feb. 27 – March 4
NFL Scouting Combine, Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis
GM Eric DeCosta and staff will head to the midwest for a week of scouting prospect and potential free agent negotiations.
March 5
Prior to 4:00 p.m., New York time, deadline for clubs to designate Franchise or Transition Players.
March 11-13
During the period beginning at 12:00 noon, New York time, on March 11 and ending at 3:59:59 p.m., New York time, on March 13, clubs are permitted to contact, and enter into contract negotiations with the certified agents of players who will become unrestricted free agents upon the expiration of their 2023 player contracts at 4:00 p.m., New York time, on March 13.
During the above two-day negotiating period, a prospective UFA who is not represented by an NFLPA Certified Contract Advisor (“Unrepresented Player”) is permitted to communicate directly with a new club’s front office officials (excluding the head coach and other members of the club’s coaching staff) regarding contract negotiations. The club is responsible for confirming the player’s status as an Unrepresented Player.
March 13
The 2024 League Year and Free Agency signing period begin at 4:00 p.m., New York time.
Trading period for 2024 begins at 4:00 p.m., New York time, after expiration of all 2023 contracts.
The first day of the 2024 League Year will end at 11:59:59 p.m., New York time, on March 13. Clubs will receive a Personnel Notice that will include all transactions submitted to the League office during the period between 4:00 p.m., New York time, and 11:59:59 p.m., New York time, on March 13.
April 1
The Falcons, Commanders, Seahawks, Patriots, Panthers, Raiders, Chargers and Titans may begin offseason workout programs after hiring new head coaches.
April 15
The Ravens and every other NFL team with returning head coaches may begin offseason workout programs.
April 25-27
NFL Draft, Detroit
May 2
Deadline for Clubs to exercise Fifth-Year Option for players selected in the first round of the 2021 Draft.
Rashod Bateman hasn’t been the most productive wide receiver in his class and it’ll be interesting to see if Baltimore commits the money.
Odafe Oweh was selected four picks after Bateman and sits in the same scenario.
May 3-6 or May 10-13
Clubs may elect to hold their one three-day post-Draft rookie minicamp from Friday through Sunday or Saturday through Monday on one of the two weekends following the Draft.
