The 1997 NFL offseason.

In the order it happened

The transaction timeline

The draft, major signings, trades and roster decisions are ordered chronologically. Complete draft boards, trade packages and free-agent jersey changes are embedded at the moment they happened.

1. March · Free agency

   Warren Moon brings a veteran arm to Seattle

   The Hall of Fame-bound quarterback joined the Seahawks at age 40 and immediately produced one of the best passing seasons in franchise history.

   Follow the jersey change beside this moment →

   48Free agencyMarch 23, 1997From MINTo SEA→Moon brings a veteran arm to SeattleThe 40-year-old quarterback returned to the Pacific Northwest and took over a talented passing offense.Minnesota Vikings → Seattle SeahawksOpen offseason →

2. April 19 · NFL Draft

   St. Louis moves up for Orlando Pace →

   The Rams traded into the top spot for Pace, the left tackle who became the foundation of the Greatest Show on Turf line.

   The complete draft board is preserved beside this moment →

   Draft board

   1997 NFL

   01

   1

   First overall selection

   Orlando Pace

   St. Louis Rams

   Open every pick→

3. Spring · Coaching reset

   Bill Parcells takes over the Jets' rebuild

   The Jets paired a disciplined new structure with aggressive roster churn after a 1–15 season, beginning one of the league's fastest turnarounds.

4. Training camp · Season setup

   Denver keeps its veteran core around Elway

   After repeated postseason disappointment, the Broncos trusted continuity around John Elway and Terrell Davis—and finally converted it into a title.