NFL Changes Anti-Tampering Period for Free Agency to 2 Days in New Guideline

The National Football League amended its anti-tampering policy Wednesday to reduce the amount of time teams can speak with agents of potential unrestricted free agents from three days to two.  

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported the proposal, which is meant to provide a "more level playing field" in pursuing free agents, officially passed. He also provided the full outline of the rule:

The only facet of the rule that changes is the timeline. The remaining guidelines stay in place, as the league tries to strike the right balance in giving every team a fair chance to negotiate with prospective offseason targets.

Players still aren't allowed to visit possible suitors or engage in any direct contact with any teams other than their current organization before the new league year begins. Only certified representatives can make contact, and they aren't allowed to reach a final agreement during the period.

Kevin Patra of NFL.com noted the league sent out a memo in 2013 that underlined the fact no final agreements could be made during the period. Nevertheless, the report pointed out at least 10 signings were made during the first five minutes of the 2014 signing period.

By reducing the amount of time agents and teams can talk by one day, the league is likely trying to cut off some of those quick signings. Furthermore, it encourages a more "open market" feel once the new league year gets underway.

It's unlikely to completely eliminate the issue of rapid free-agent signings, but it should help make things at least a little less chaotic.