The Canadian Football League (CFL) free agent market officially opens on February 14, but general managers will start shopping on Sunday.
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In fact, the Ambrosie Circuit has instituted a seven-day negotiation window for teams to discuss and even make formal offers to footballers who will be free as air on Valentine’s Day.
This peculiarity was introduced in the CFL in 2020 with the aim of avoiding raids. It also allows players to get a good idea of their value before the market opens.
The example of Montreal Alouettes star player Eugene Lewis allows us to better understand the process. On Sunday, the wide receiver can chat with the other eight CFL teams. Organizations interested in its services have until February 12, 12:00 noon to submit a contract offer. The proposal must be sent to the league and the Players Association. Offers cannot be canceled afterwards.
If “Geno” receives such approval, the Alouettes’ GM, Danny Maciocia, will be notified. The 55-year-old Montrealer would then benefit from an exclusive 48-hour negotiation window with his player.
So Lewis would have three options on February 14: sign the contract that another club offered him last week, get along with the Sparrows or become a free agent and continue to negotiate with all CFL teams.
In addition to Lewis, there are 21 other players from the 2022 Als squad who could soon enjoy a free hand. Some of the big names in this situation are quarterback Trevor Lewis, wide receiver Jake Wieneke, linebacker Adarius Pickett, running back Walter Fletcher, and returner Chandler Worthy.