What is the NFL fifth-year option? Tiers, list of candidates for 2026
Here's everything to know about the NFL's fifth-year option in 2026, including eligible players, salaries and more.
How about one more trip around the sun? That is the goal for every player in the NFL, regardless of experience. Rookies hope they get a sophomore season, just as the 10-year veteran hopes there will be an 11th.
In a year-to-year league like the NFL, nothing is ever guaranteed. However, players who are selected early in the NFL draft can't always relate. Contracts are fully guaranteed for the first-round picks, ensuring that they receive four trips around the NFL sun – or at least get paid for it.
Some of them will receive a fifth year before turning the page to a new deal. It's the chance to extend the arrangement between player and team for at least one more year, marking another deadline on the NFL calendar . This year, the deadline to exercise the fifth-year option for 2023 first-round picks is May 1.
The Seattle Seahawks have already picked up the option for Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Devon Witherspoon – two of the 31 players that can have a fifth-year added onto their rookie deal this year. It's almost decision time for the others. Here's what to know about the NFL's fifth-year option: What is the NFL fifth-year option?
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