:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45836424/usa-today-6777426.0.jpg)
Although free agents cannot sign new contracts until Tuesday, the NFL collective bargaining agreement allows NFL teams and agents for free agents whose contracts don't technically expire until March 10th to legally interact, starting today. PFT has more details:
The version of the memo sent last year permits a team to "[s]ubmit a written summary of the club’s negotiating position," to "[e]xpress its position as to signing bonus, length of contract, amounts of signing bonus and yearly compensation, and other items," to "[a]djust its negotiating position in response to a certified agent’s position," and "[e]ngage in an oral exchange of positions."
However, the team must say that it is simply articulating a "negotiating position," not "making an offer." Under the 2014 memo, no offers can be made, and no express or implied agreements can be reached.
Personally, I think it's hilarious to imagine agents and general managers doing THE FORBIDDEN DANCE.
A thousand Schrute Bucks to anyone who manages to superimpose the faces of Rick Smith and Ryan Mallett's agent onto the heads of the actors in the video above.
There should be a fair amount of whispers today about potential landing spots for free agents, whether they're Texans-related or not, so drop any rumors, reports, or what have you in the Comments below. This is your first official open thread for NFL free agency in 2015.