....players being released ....

[fbzh2]

What is the difference between players being released or being waived, clearly they are not the same, as the two terms don’t seem to be used interchangeably; and how does each one affect the player, his contract, the releasing/waiving team, and a team that signs him?

[JimBob2232]

Probably need someone else to chime in on this...I feel I am more knowlegeble on finances than 90% of the fans out there, so I think I know the answer here, so I'll give it a shot....but might want someone to verify before you take it to the bank.

 

Waivers - Other teams have the option to claim, if they do, they take him and his current contract. If multiple claims exist, team with higest priority gets said player.

 

Released - Current contract is voided, player becomes a FA. Able to sign with any team at any contract terms.

 

In MLB, and I assume NFL also, a player must be waived prior to being released. As far as cap ramifications go, one is synonomous with the other.

[The Jokeman]

What is the difference between players being released or being waived, clearly they are not the same, as the two terms don’t seem to be used interchangeably; and how does each one affect the player, his contract, the releasing/waiving team, and a team that signs him?

753424[/snapback]

I think it has to do with NFL experience as players that have played a certain amount of years are free to sign with other teams whereas less experienced players are subject to the waiver wire. I could be wrong though but you can read the CBA at http://www.nflpa.org to find the real answer.

[fbzh2]

thanks to both of for the input