The 2026 MLS End-of-Year Waivers process opens four days after 2026 MLS Cup presented by Audi, occurring one day prior to the opening of Free Agency.
Key dates:
- Nov. 25:Â Option Exercise Deadlines. MLS clubs not competing in the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs must submit to the MLS League Office which players will have their options exercised and which players will not have their options exercised. Clubs in the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs are required to submit all Bona Fide offers on the day after their final match of the postseason.
- Dec. 21:Â MLS Year-End Waivers process opens and a list of players eligible for Year-End Waivers is officially released.
- Dec. 23 (5 p.m. ET):Â MLS Year-End Waivers process closes.
Key parameters:
The MLS End-of-Year Waivers process consists of players whose options are not exercised, who are not subject to first right of refusal, and who are not eligible for Free Agency or Re-Entry Draft.
MLS End-of-Year Waivers process:
The selection process is determined by the reverse order of the final standings in the 2026 MLS season, taking into account postseason performance. Once the MLS End-of-Year Waivers process is complete, those players who have not been selected may be signed by any MLS team on a first-come, first-served basis.
