As the NFL gears up for the 2026 season, teams across the league are set to kick off their voluntary offseason workout programs—a crucial time for players to build chemistry, refine skills, and prepare for the grind ahead. Whether you're a die-hard fan tracking your favorite squad or an athlete looking to mirror pro training routines, here's everything you need to know about these structured nine-week programs.
The offseason calendar is divided into three distinct phases, each designed to progressively ramp up intensity while prioritizing player safety. Phase One spans the first two weeks, focusing on meetings, strength and conditioning, and physical rehabilitation. Think of it as a foundation-building period where players reconnect with coaches and focus on recovery and core fitness.
Phase Two takes over the next three weeks, introducing on-field work—but at a controlled pace. Expect individual and group drills, "perfect play drills," and walk-throughs where offensive players line up against offensive players (and defense against defense). The key rule? No live contact or team vs. team drills. It's all about technique and timing without the physical toll.
Phase Three, the final four weeks, is where the action heats up with Organized Team Activities (OTAs). Teams get 10 days of practice, including 7-on-7, 9-on-7, and 11-on-11 drills. While live contact remains off-limits, these sessions simulate game-like scenarios, allowing quarterbacks to connect with receivers and defenses to sharpen coverage schemes.
Each team sets its own schedule within this framework, with dates ranging from mid-May to mid-June. For example, some squads kick off OTAs on May 18-19 and May 21, followed by sessions in late May and early June. Others stretch into June with sessions on June 8-9 and June 11. These windows give players flexibility to train while balancing personal commitments.
For fans, this is a sneak peek at roster battles and emerging stars. For athletes, it's a reminder that offseason preparation—whether on the field or in the gym—sets the stage for game-day success. So, as the NFL's best gear up, it's the perfect time to stock up on training apparel and gear that matches their commitment to excellence.
