49ers offseason: Important calendar events and dates to know

On one hand, it’s been one of the most entertaining seasons in recent memory. Sure, it hadn’t been that long since the San Francisco 49ers made a Super Bowl appearance. But when you look at all the uncertainty headed into the 2019 regular season and factor in the injuries, the team had to overcome, and the second-half schedule, saying this season was fun is the understatement of the season. If you’re upset about the Super Bowl loss, still you have every right to be, but don’t let that loss cloud your memory on the season that was.

It’s time to turn the page, and as the 2020 offseason is officially underway. It’s February, and we haven’t had more than five mock drafts on the site. That’s a win. That’s going to change as the NFL Combine is right around the corner. Here is a look at the important dates to know over the next couple of months.

February 24 — March 2

NFL Scouting Combine, Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Indiana. The top college players at every position run around in underwear to improve their draft stock because 40-yard dashes will tell you more about a player instead of what they did on the field for three seasons!

February 25

First day for clubs to designate Franchise or Transition Players. This is a big period for the 49ers with Arik Armstead’s contract situation looming.

March 10

Before 1 p.m. PT, teams must designate Franchise or Transition Players.

March 16 — 18

Beginning at 1:00 p.m. PT, the legal tampering period begins. Clubs may contact and negotiate with pending unrestricted free agents.

March 18

Before 1 p.m. PT:

• Teams must exercise 2020 options on all players who have option clauses in their 2019 contracts. Clubs must submit qualifying offers to their restricted free agents with expiring contracts.
• The top 51 players for each team must be under the 2020 salary cap.

Beginning at 1 p.m. PT

• 2019 player contracts expire.
• 2020 league year and free agency period begin.
• The 2020 trading period begins.
• March 29 — April 1

Annual league meeting/owners meetings in Palm Beach, Florida. This is where great rules like a replay for pass interference are voted on.

April 6

Teams that hired a new head coach after the end of the 2019 regular season may begin offseason workout programs.

April 17

Deadline for restricted free agents to sign offer sheets.

April 20

All other teams may begin offseason workout programs.

April 23 — 25

NFL Draft in Las Vegas, Nevada. The 49errs will pick No. 31, for now.

April 27

NFL teams may request permission to visit with, try out, or sign any player who was under contract to the XFL after the XFL season.

The next time the Niners will be in helmets

Rookie minicamp will be in May. Training camp will begin in mid-July. The preseason will open on August 6. The regular season will start on September 10. Super Bowl LV will be on February 7 in Tampa, Florida.