Cowboys sign LB Thomas

[Dirtbag59]

Originally Posted by Gmanc711

Does anyone know why Zach Thomas is able to be signed when Free Agency doesnt start for another week? Just wondering.

Apparently if you're a free agent before the start of Free Agency (ie got cut after the season or sat home all year) then you're allowed to sign with a new team. This doesn't include guys who contracts expired so for example Rock Cartwright can't test the market until free agency opens up. That way teams can use their temporary exclusive negotating rights to retain player before the start of Free Agency.