How many credited seasons are required for NFL players to receive severance pay?

To understand the requirement for NFL players to receive severance pay, it's essential to recognize that the NFL collective bargaining agreement stipulates that players must complete a minimum of two credited seasons in order to qualify for this benefit. Credited seasons are essentially years in which a player is on an active roster or the injured reserve list for a certain period of time, which acknowledges their contribution to the league.

This regulation is in place to ensure that players who have a more extensive career in the NFL and who contribute to the team over multiple seasons are the ones who receive severance pay. This approach aligns with principles of compensation for service and loyalty to the league and teams. Therefore, having at least two credited seasons serves as a threshold, reinforcing the value of sustained participation in the sport while also assisting players in their transition to life after football.