NFL offseason priorities for 2022 - Key dates, quarterback dominoes, potential rule changes, Rooney Rule revisions, more

It's almost wrong to refer to the time period between the Super Bowl and training camp as the NFL offseason. Packed with tentpole events designed to keep fans interested for the next five months, it's more accurate to call it the NFL's second season.

The spring of 2022 will be just as busy as recent years, mixing standard affairs with a now three-year effort to confront and manage the COVID-19 pandemic. A revamped competition committee, including four new members, will analyze the game and consider rule changes on a number of fronts, most notably on special teams. Here is the makeup of the 10-person committee, with new members marked by an asterisk:

Rich McKay, Atlanta Falcons president (chairman)

Katie Blackburn, Cincinnati Bengals executive vice president*

Chris Grier, Miami Dolphins general manager*

Stephen Jones, Dallas Cowboys chief operating officer

John Mara, New York Giants owner

Ozzie Newsome, Baltimore Ravens executive vice president

Frank Reich, Indianapolis Colts coach*

Ron Rivera, Washington Commanders coach

Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Steelers coach

Mike Vrabel, Tennessee Titans coach*

In a tangible sign that the league is moving back to a state of normalcy, the NFL has already announced its key dates for the next few months. After playing the Super Bowl a week later than normal, thanks to the first-ever 17-game regular season, the offseason/second season will come fast. Here's what we know so far:

February 22 (tentative): First day to designate franchise or transition tags

March 1-7: Scouting combine (Indianapolis, Indiana)

March 8: Franchise/transition tag deadline

March 14-16: Negotiating period for pending unrestricted free agents

March 16 (4 p.m. ET): Free-agent deals can be signed, and trades can be