Philadelphia Eagles linebackers Patrick Johnson (48) and Kyzir White (43) sit on the bench after their loss in Super Bowl 57, Sunday, Feb. 12, 2023, in Glendale, Arizona. The Chiefs beat the Eagles 38-35. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs woke up Monday still celebrating their second Super Bowl title in four years, while the Philadelphia Eagles lamented how close they fell to another Lombardi Trophy. .

The rest of the league? He has been looking to the future for a long time.

The day after the Super Bowl represents the first day of the offseason, even if no one takes time off in the NFL. The draft, coincidentally, will be held in Kansas City this year.

Here’s a look at what’s in store now that the confetti has been swept away at State Farm Stadium:

THE FRANCHISE SITUATION

The first big date on the offseason schedule is Feb. 21, when teams can nominate franchise or transition players. The tag can be awarded to a restricted free agent and guarantees another year under contract with a modified salary.

The Chiefs did that last season with left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. when the two sides failed to reach a long-term deal and Brown could be re-tagged. Another player who could be tagged is Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson. The deadline for teams to nominate players is March 7.

TIME TO STUDY

Combine scouting week kicks off Feb. 28 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, where teams will have the opportunity to test dozens of prospects in one location. Otherwise, scouts will have to travel across the country, starting March 7, when varsity teams hold their pro days. Teams can invite 30 eligible players to visit their facilities.

The Bears will have the No. 1 draft pick, but since they’re happy with quarterback Justin Fields, there’s a chance they’ll trade his spot for a team looking for one of the best QB prospects available.

Other potential Pick 1 players include Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter and passing thrower Will Anderson Jr.

FREE AGENCY MADNESS

There is a three-day window beginning March 13 in which teams can contact and begin negotiations with free agents and submit qualified restricted free agent offers on March 15. This is also the date teams must be below the salary cap with the new league year.

Jackson will be one of the most wanted if he’s not tagged as a franchise, although that’s unlikely.

CHOOSE ME

The next big party after the Super Bowl in the NFL is the draft, which takes place April 27-29 at Union Station in Kansas City.

LET’S GO

Teams are allowed to hold a three-day rookie minicamp in early May, while volunteer jobs extend into early summer.

Categorized in: