The individuals who were eligible to sign contracts with any National Football League team without being subject to trade restrictions following the conclusion of the 2017 season are the focal point. This group encompasses players whose contracts had expired and those who had been released by their previous teams.
The availability of these players represented a significant opportunity for teams to address roster needs and improve their competitive standing. The movement of talent often reshaped team dynamics and impacted the overall landscape of the league. Analyzing this specific class provides historical context for understanding player valuation and team strategy at that time.