Which term describes a system that determines a player’s eligibility for free agency based on service and contract terms?

The term that accurately describes a system determining a player’s eligibility for free agency based on their service and the terms of their contract is the Accrued Season System. This system is crucial because it specifies how many seasons a player must be on an NFL roster to qualify for free agency. Typically, a player must accumulate a certain number of "accrued seasons," which is defined as being on the active roster for at least six regular season games in a season.

This system is important because it directly impacts a player’s ability to negotiate a new contract, change teams, or enter into the open market after fulfilling their contractual obligations. Understanding the Accrued Season System is essential for agents when advising players about their career paths and contract negotiations as it lays the groundwork for when they can seek better opportunities or higher pay.

The other options refer to different aspects of the NFL's business structure:

• The Franchise Tag System relates to a team's ability to retain a player beyond their contract period by designating them as a franchise player.

• The Salary Cap System encompasses the overall financial regulations governing team spending, not directly related to individual player eligibility for free agency.

• The Free Agency System is a broader classification that includes all aspects of a player's ability to sign