Key Dates in the 49ers 2026 NFL Offseason Calendar

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The road to the 2026 NFL season begins long before kickoff. Over the next several months, the San Francisco 49ers will navigate free agency, the draft, and other key offseason milestones as they work to build out their roster. This article provides an overview of some of the key dates and deadlines on the NFL offseason calendar that will shape how the 49ers' roster comes together for the 2026 season.

Why it matters

Understanding the NFL offseason calendar is crucial for fans and teams alike, as it outlines the key dates and deadlines that will impact roster moves, free agency, the draft, and other important offseason activities. This information helps the 49ers and their fans stay informed and prepared for the upcoming season.

The details

Some of the key dates on the 49ers' 2026 offseason calendar include the franchise tag deadline on February 17, the NFL Scouting Combine from February 23 to March 2, the start of free agency on March 11, the NFL Draft from April 23-25, and the deadline to exercise fifth-year options on May 1. The article also covers other important milestones like rookie minicamps, the NFLPA Rookie Premiere, and the league meetings.

• February 17: Beginning this date through 1:00 p.m. PT on March 3, clubs may designate Franchise or Transition Players.
• February 23-March 2: NFL Scouting Combine, Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Ind.
• March 3: Prior to 4:00 p.m. ET, deadline for clubs to designate Franchise or Transition Players.
• March 9-11: From March 9 at 9:00 a.m. PT through March 11 at 12:59 p.m. PT, NFL teams can negotiate with the agents of players set to become unrestricted free agents when their contracts expire at 1:00 p.m. PT on March 12.
• March 11: The 2026 League Year and free agency signing period begin at 1:00 p.m. PT. Trading period for 2026 begins at 1:00 p.m. PT, after expiration of all 2025 contracts.