What is the difference between restricted and unrestricted free agents?

The distinction between restricted and unrestricted free agents is primarily based on the level of control that a player's current team retains over their ability to negotiate with other teams.

Unrestricted free agents have complete freedom to sign with any team without any restrictions from their previous team. This means they can negotiate contracts with any franchise in the league and the previous team cannot intervene, allowing the player to explore the highest offers available. This level of freedom incentivizes teams to make strategic moves in free agency, as they compete against one another to attract top talent.

On the other hand, restricted free agents possess a different status. Their current team retains a right of first refusal, meaning that if a restricted free agent receives an offer from another team, their original team has the opportunity to match that offer to retain the player. If the original team chooses not to match the offer, the player may then sign with the new team. Thus, restricted free agents have limited options compared to unrestricted free agents.

Understanding these definitions helps clarify the advantages and limitations associated with a player's free agency status, and highlights the strategic decisions teams must make in managing their rosters.