Capitalizing on every team's desire not to see good players fall through the cracks, the league will introduce a veteran combine set to begin this March in Arizona.
In a memo sent out by NFL director of football development Matt Birk, obtained by NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, the venture will "serve to isolate and consolidate veteran free-agent talent for more focused evaluation on a comparative basis."
In the past, veteran free agents were welcome at regional combines, another initiative created as a failsafe for potential NFL talent. However, this year, at the end of March just prior to league meetings, roughly 100 veteran free agents will be chosen through the application process to work out in front of representatives from all 32 teams.
At first blush, this could be a valuable avenue for players who were discarded quickly or toiled in training camp at a deep position. No matter how well-stocked a team's personnel department is, it's impossible to keep an eye on every eligible player cycling through the system.
On second thought, with the existence of plenty high-profile big name free agents out there looking for re-entry, or simply a re-introduction into the public eye, the league will need to be careful it doesn't turn into a reality show.
Perhaps that's what the application process and limited number of accepted players are for.
Click here to find out how you can participate in the Veteran Free Agent Combine.
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