The NFL is a year-round enterprise. From free agency to off-season workout programs to mini-camps and Organized Team Activities - teams are always looking to improve and set the foundation for success. Potential free agent signings and draft choices are being evaluated, while organizations, top to bottom, are planning for the 2012 season. Check out our off-season primer which includes key dates and activities.
2012 NFL Scouting Combine
Each February, hundreds of the very best college football players are invited to the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Ind., where executives, coaches, scouts and doctors from all 32 NFL teams conduct an intense, four-day job interview in advance of the NFL Draft. This year's Combine is scheduled for February 22-28.
Commitment to Excellence Award Presentation Dinner
On Saturday, March 10, 2012, at the Hilton-Oakland Airport, the Steering Committee for the Booster Clubs of the Oakland Raiders will host the 10th Annual Commitment to Excellence Award Presentation Dinner, honoring this year's recipient, Rock Cartwright.
Free Agency and Trading Period
The signing period for unrestricted free agents and the trading period begins March 13.
Off-Season Workout Program
The Oakland Raiders off-season strength and conditioning program will begin in early April under the direction of new strength and conditioning coach Al Miller as the team convenes for training at the Raiders Alameda, Calif., facility.
2012 Raiderette Auditions
The preliminary 2012 Raiderette Audition is scheduled for Sunday, April 15, with Finals set for the following Sunday. Fitness boot camp classes are underway and a prep class is also on the schedule.
2012 NFL Schedule
The 2012 NFL game schedule, including dates, times, venues and television coverage will be announced by the National Football League sometime during the month of April. Preseason opponents will be revealed in late March/early April. Last year, preseason opponents were announced April 12, with the regular season schedule announcement coming on April 19.
2012 NFL Draft
The 2012 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 26-28 at Radio City Music Hall in New York. More than 250 collegiate prospects will begin their professional football careers as a selection in the seven-round Draft. The first round of the 2012 NFL Draft is set for Thursday, April 26, with the second and third rounds on Friday, April 27, followed by Rounds 4-7 Saturday, April 28. Visit Raiders.com Draft Central.
Mini-Camps and Organized Team Activities
The Raiders historically have held mini-camps and Organized Team Activities at the team's Alameda facility during the months of May and June. Dates and times to be announced. We'll have complete coverage of OTAs and mini-camps right here on Raiders.com.
2012 Training Camp
The Raiders typically report to Training Camp 2012 at their Napa Valley Training Complex in late July. Teams are allowed to open training camp 15 days prior to their first preseason game.
Be sure to check the Raiders.com Events Calendar for more events and important dates.
