Free agency is a period in professional sports when players can negotiate contracts with any team. This allows athletes to explore new opportunities and potentially earn higher salaries. Free agency typically occurs after a player's contract expires or if they are released by their team. In major leagues like the NFL, NBA, and MLB, free agency can significantly impact team rosters and overall competitiveness. Teams often compete to sign top free agents, which can lead to shifts in team dynamics and fan excitement. The process is governed by specific rules and timelines set by each league.