free agent

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The Sparks don’t have a first-round draft pick, so they will need to pursue talent on the robust free agent market or make another trade to bolster their backcourt.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

The so-called “transfer portal” – a period when college athletes make it known that they are willing to switch schools – operates like a free agent market in pro sports leagues.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

It led to him getting taken off the Reds’ 40-man roster at the end of last season and sent to triple-A Louisville — a minor league assignment he rejected, making him a free agent.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2026

The unusually thin free agent class means few available stars may land eye-popping contracts, while lesser-known players could command surprising sums.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 4, 2026

There’s no intermediate point in the process in which you confront the potential employer as a free agent, entitled to cut her own deal.

From "Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America" by Barbara Ehrenreich