HOUSTON (July 1, 2025) – The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and the NWSL Player Association have released the list of eligible free agents who can now begin negotiations for their 2026 Standard Player Agreements. Notably, five players from the Houston Dash are included in this list.
The players are midfielder Belle Briede, forwards Evelina Duljan and Ryan Gareis, defender Katie Lind, and goalkeeper Abby Smith, all of whom are currently contracted through the 2025 regular season. This marks the second free agency period for the league following the collective bargaining agreement established in August 2024. For this window, players enjoy a full six-month period to negotiate before their agreements expire—a significant development that enhances player autonomy and strategic opportunities.
As the NWSL evolves, this approach aims to promote competitive balance and player satisfaction, fostering a more dynamic environment for both teams and athletes alike. The inclusion of Houston Dash players highlights the ongoing commitment to building a strong roster while navigating the intricate landscape of player contracts and negotiations.
This proactive move in the league’s structure could be beneficial for the future of women’s soccer in the United States, fostering talent retention and attracting new players to the league.