What is a Required Tender?

A Required Tender refers specifically to a Player Contract tender that a team submits to retain the rights to a player, typically when that player is a restricted free agent. By tendering a contract, the team ensures that they have the opportunity to match any offer the player might receive from other teams, thus protecting their investment in the player. The tender also establishes a minimum salary for the player based on their experience and service time in the league.

This mechanism is crucial for teams to maintain some control over their roster while allowing players the opportunity to explore free agency. Additionally, the amount of the tender can signal the team's valuation of the player, which can influence negotiations and future contracts. The other options do not accurately capture the essence of what a Required Tender entails in the context of free agency and player rights.