How many games are required to earn one credited season on the roster, injured reserve, or physically unable to perform list?

To earn one credited season in the NFL, a player must be part of the team's roster, injured reserve, or physically unable to perform list for at least three games during that season. This requirement ensures that players who spend a significant amount of time on the active roster or are facing injuries still receive acknowledgment for their contributions to the team over the course of the season.

This three-game threshold is aligned with the NFL's structure and is crucial for calculating benefits such as retirement, health insurance, and other player welfare programs that relate to credited seasons. Such policies are in place to protect players and recognize their commitment to the league, even if they are sidelined due to injury.

The other options do not align with the established criteria set forth in the collective bargaining agreement between the NFL and the NFL Players Association. Therefore, three games is the definitive requirement needed to qualify for a credited season.