<P> NFL clubs are prohibited from contacting waived players until the player has been released by the club after passing waivers . </P> <P> As of 2008, at the conclusion of a season in which a veteran with four years of service is claimed via waivers, veterans with a no - trade clause in their contracts may declare themselves free agents . Any other veteran with four years of service can declare himself a free agent at the conclusion of the season subsequent to the season in which they were claimed on waivers if they remain under a claimed contract . </P> <P> A player who clears waivers and becomes a free agent is free to negotiate and sign a contract with any NFL club, and any NFL club is free to negotiate and sign a contract with such player . There is no penalty or restriction for signing a free agent who has cleared waivers . For example, Draft Choice Compensation between Clubs or First Refusal Rights of any kind, and signing period restrictions are not applicable . </P>

Nfl what does it mean to clear waivers