Key dates on the NFL offseason calendar

Like it or not, the offseason is here. The 2014 season is behind us, and it is time for the Seattle Seahawks to move on and get ready for the 2015 season. To do that, it is important to keep key dates from the NFL offseason calendar in mind.

The first date people will like at is February 16th. That’s the day that Franchise and Transition tags can be placed on player. With most of their key free agents already locked up, the Seahawks lack anyone who should be considered for those tags this season.

The offseason for the Seahawks really kicks off on the 17th with the annual NFL Scouting Combine. That in just a couple of weeks, and there is a ton to cover between now and then.

2015 NFL Offseason Calendar

Feb. 10: CFL players with expiring contracts can be signed

Feb. 16: First day for clubs to use Franchise or Transition Players

Feb. 17-23: NFL Scouting Combine 

March 2: Deadline for clubs use Franchise or Transition tags

March 7-10: NFL’s “legal tampering period.” Teams can contact and negotiate with any player that is to become a UFA, but can’t sign them to contracts until Marsh 10th.

March 10:

• 2015 league year and free agency period begins (4 p.m. ET)
• Teams must exercise options for 2015 on all players who have option clauses in their 2014 contracts.
• Teams must submit qualifying offers to their Restricted Free Agents with expiring contracts and to whom they desire to retain a Right of First Refusal/Compensation.
• Teams must submit a Minimum Salary Tender for any restricted free agents
• Salary cap set, and all teams must be under with with their top 51 contracts

March 22-25: NFL Owner’s Meeting

April 6: Clubs that hired new coaches after the end of the 2014 season may begin offseason workout programs

April 20: Clubs with returning coaches may begin offseason workout programs

April 24: Deadline for Restricted Free Agents to sign offer sheets

April 29: Deadline for old team to exercise Right of First Refusal to RFAs

April 30-May 2: NFL draft 

May 8-11 or May 15-18: teams may hold three-day rookie minicamp

July 15: Deadline for teams and franchise tag players to sign a long term extension.

Mid July: Training camp Begins!