The NFL Commissioner’s Exempt List is a unique player status that is only granted to clubs in exceptional circumstances, according to the NFL Player Personnel Policy Manual.
Players who have been declared temporarily exempt from counting within the Active List limit by the Commissioner are included on the list.
What is the commissioners exempt list?
A player can only be added to the Exempt List by the Commissioner; Clubs do not have this authority, and no exemption is automatic, regardless of the circumstances. Additionally, the Commissioner has the authority to decide in advance whether a player’s time on the Exempt List is limited or lasts until the exemption is lifted and the player is reinstated on the Active List.
An NFL player who is on the exempt list cannot join their team for any football activities. The player is permitted to attend meetings, exercise, and receive treatment at the facility, despite their inability to participate in practice or games. The player on the exempt list is essentially on paid leave.
