How long does a rookie free agent (RFA) have to receive a qualifying offer?

A rookie free agent (RFA) has a period of 35 days to receive a qualifying offer. This timeframe is critical as the qualifying offer is the mechanism by which teams can extend an offer to RFAs to retain their services for the upcoming season. The 35-day window is established in the league's collective bargaining agreement, indicating the urgency for teams to assess and decide on their players' futures shortly after the conclusion of the season.

Understanding the timeline for qualifying offers is essential for agents representing rookie free agents, as it informs their negotiation strategies and the timing of any potential contracts. This knowledge allows agents to navigate opportunities for their clients—whether that means securing a deal with their current team or exploring options with other franchises within the set period. The specificity of the 35-day deadline is what makes the answer correct within the context of the league's operations and player management processes.