How many games equate to one accrued season for an NFL player on a 53-man roster?

One accrued season for an NFL player on a 53-man roster is achieved by participating in six or more regular-season games. This rule is significant because it pertains to various aspects of the player's career, including eligibility for free agency, pension qualifications, and other benefits under the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

When a player is on the roster and contributes to the team's efforts in at least six games during a season, the league counts that season as "accrued." This metric allows players to earn rights and develop their careers within the league effectively, ensuring that their participation is recognized and rewarded over time. The specific number of six games is crucial in establishing the baseline for a player's service time and the rights associated with it.

Players who do not meet the six-game standard do not gain an accrued season, which can impact their contractual negotiations and future career opportunities in the NFL. Understanding this aspect of player eligibility and career progression is vital for agents and others involved in the NFL ecosystem.