Free agency season in the NWSL is officially underway.
The NWSL Players Association and the league itself announced a list of 75 players who are eligible as either restricted or unrestricted free agency.
“It’s not just about contracts; it’s about empowering our players,” said NWSLPA president Tori Huster in a press release. “The NWSLPA is dedicated to advancing our athletes’ rights and well-being. Free agency, a fundamental pillar of professional sports and a global standard around the world, gives athletes control over their careers, the ability to explore new opportunities, negotiate improved terms, and pursue paths that align with their aspirations. With NWSL’s world-class players and the empowerment that free agency brings, we’re primed for an exciting future.”
Restricted free agency is new for the league and its players, with the status being phased in per the terms of the collective bargaining agreement signed in 2022.
A player is eligible for restricted free agency if they have three “NWSL service years” (i.e. were on an NWSL roster in three different seasons) and are on an expiring contract with an NWSL club or do not currently have a contract in the league.
A restricted free agent may begin negotiations with an NWSL team over a 2024 contract, but their current club is given seven days to match a formal offer. The CBA says that if the offer is matched, “the current Team will have the right to retain the Player.” If there is no matching offer, the player’s NWSL rights will transfer to their new team for 2024.
Unrestricted free agents face a situation that is a bit less complicated: they can begin negotiations and change clubs regardless of whether their current side makes a matching offer. Previously, a player had to have six service years to qualify for unrestricted status, but for 2024 that number has been reduced down to five.
Incoming expansion clubs Bay FC and the Utah Royals are allowed to begin negotiations with players, but don’t expect any quick announcements of free agents being signed. While free agency-eligible players may sign a new deal with their current club at any time, contracts with a new team may not be officially signed until November 20.
Here is the complete list of unrestricted and restricted free agents in the NWSL: