Everything you need to know regarding an NFL player being "released" vs "waived"
Waiver wire vs Release
What’s the difference between a player being waived versus a player being released? This is a term that is often thrown around in the NFL media, and I understand the lingo can sometimes be a bit confusing. Don’t worry, I have you covered.
Below is the simplest form breakdown of the subtle differences between the two terms and how they impact a team:
Waiver wire
>4 years of service
They go in the waiver wire pool
31 teams can “claim” that player (24-hour active deadline)
HOWEVER, not anyone can simply call dibs on that player as it's based on the NFL draft order
For example, CAR had 6th overall pick, so their claim spot is 6th overall
IF the player clears waivers from ALL 31 teams, he’s viewed as UFA
The waiver wire position remains UNCHANGED until Week 3 of the 2022 season, from there the NFL standings dictate the updated/new waiver wire positioning.
Release
<4 years of service
Free to sign with ANY NFL team
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