NWSL Abolishes Draft System, Introduces Player Free Agency

In an iconic moment in the landscape of American professional sports, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) together with the NWSL Players Association has decided to remove the draft system, instead granting players unrestricted free agency. This strategic change is intended to improve player autonomy and improve the league’s competitive position globally.

In a groundbreaking update to their collective bargaining agreement, which now extends through 2030, the league aims to give players more choice over their career paths. The change is expected to strengthen the league’s appeal to internationally renowned athletes, positioning it as a premier global destination.

NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman highlighted the competitive global market for soccer talent in her statement to CNBC, noting that eliminating the draft was essential to level the playing field with international clubs. “Removing this artificial barrier is critical to our strategy to attract and cultivate top-tier talent globally,” Berman said.

Announced Thursday, the new deal not only abolishes the draft, but also overhauls the financial structures within the league. Starting with a minimum salary of $48,500 in 2025, player salaries are set to rise to $82,500 by 2030. Additionally, the deal increases team salary caps from $3.3 million in 2025 to $5.1 million by 2030, with no individual salary caps, giving teams flexibility in how they distribute salaries.

Future salary cap improvements are also planned as part of a revenue-sharing model tied to the league’s growth in sponsorships and media rights. This model is designed to ensure that players share in the league’s financial success.

The league’s expansion and growing market value are highlighted by new ownership investments and significant media deals. Most notably, Disney CEO Bob Iger and journalist Willow Bay acquired a major stake in Angel City FC last month, valuing it at $250 million, the highest for any women’s sports team globally. Additionally, a recent $240 million media deal promises substantial growth and exposure, marking a 40-fold increase over previous deals.

With these strategic moves, Berman expressed confidence in the league’s progressive stance, emphasizing proactive engagement with the union to solidify the league’s structure and attract future investment without concerns of job disruption.

This new phase of the NWSL aims not only to enhance the league’s prestige, but also to solidify its position as a pioneering force in global women’s sport, paving the way for unprecedented growth and investment opportunities.