Just What Is Free Agency ???

[Woof 101]

With five of our young men trying to get to the next level this year all via free agency, I have looked at the topic more than in the past. Seeing Adams was signed as a exclusive rights free agent really caught my eye.
I realize many here probably have this already in their pocket, but for those like myself that did not realize there are seven versions of free agency.
http://football.calsci.com/FreeAgency.html
Of course not all applies to first year players just found it to be quite more complex than one would think. As for our guys I hope they all get a foot in the door somewhere. They are not just competing against drafted players going up the ladder but free agents going down... GO HUSKIES...

 

[huskymedic]

You sure about that -- the definition in the article you linked doesn't seem to match the scenario (initial contract vs expired contract)? I'm far from a NFL CBA expert so I can be off base.

Exclusive-Rights Free Agents (ERFA)
An Exclusive-Rights Free Agent is an NFL player who is not under contract, but has only two years of NFL experience. If his former club makes him an offer at the three year veteran minimum salary, then that's it, he has to take it or leave the NFL. These guys have no right to negotiate with other teams. They are "free" only in the sense that they're free to quit.​

Adams is reported to be signing a three year contract - no guaranteed money.

Here's some additional clarity:
What's the difference between an undrafted free agent and a rookie minicamp tryout?