dream league design

Section 1 — League Purpose, Identity, and Authority

1.1 League Identity and Purpose

Dream League is a premium, competitive recreational football league built around the belief that belonging, effort, accountability, and shared experience matter as much as raw talent.

The league exists to provide:

• A high-level competitive environment

• A structured, intentional team-based ecosystem

• A space where players of varying ability levels can meaningfully participate

• A league experience that rewards preparation, chemistry, reliability, and growth

Dream League is not designed to be exclusive to elite athletes only, nor is it designed to artificially equalize outcomes. Instead, it is designed to balance excellence with inclusion, ensuring that players who show up, compete, and commit have a place and a role.

Participation in Dream League is voluntary. All players, GMs, officials, and staff agree to operate within the league’s rules, culture, and governance framework as outlined in this Constitution.

1.2 The League Ecosystem

Dream League operates as a single, interconnected ecosystem consisting of players, General Managers, league officials, statisticians, scoreboard operators, media personnel, and the league office.

Every role within the league contributes to the overall experience. While responsibilities differ, mutual respect and shared responsibility are foundational expectations.

The league views itself as:

• A competitive system

• A storytelling and media ecosystem

• A long-term project that evolves over time

Actions that undermine trust, safety, fairness, or the shared experience may be addressed even if not explicitly listed elsewhere, under the league’s authority to protect its ecosystem.

1.3 League Authority and Governance Structure

Dream League is governed by a single Commissioner, who serves as the final authority on all league matters.

The Commissioner:

• Does not play in the league

• Does not serve as a General Manager

• Does not hold a rostered team role

• Operates solely in a governance, oversight, and media capacity

The Commissioner’s responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Interpreting and enforcing this Constitution

• Protecting competitive integrity

• Resolving disputes

• Overseeing league operations

• Approving trades and transactions

• Managing league staff and officials

• Safeguarding the long-term health of the league

The Commissioner may delegate operational tasks but retains final decision-making authority.

1.4 Final Authority and Discretion

The Commissioner retains discretionary authority to act in situations where:

• Player safety is at risk

• League integrity is threatened

• Behavior is detrimental to the league ecosystem

• Time-sensitive decisions are required

• Situations arise that are not explicitly covered by written rules

This discretionary authority is not intended to be arbitrary, but protective. The league acknowledges that no written document can anticipate every scenario, and therefore grants the Commissioner limited discretion to act in good faith to uphold league values.

1.5 Foundation Members and League Staff

Dream League staff — including but not limited to:

• Officials

• Statisticians

• Scoreboard operators

• Media and production personnel

• League operations staff

— are considered Foundation Members of the league.

Foundation Members are integral to the league’s function and experience. They are to be treated as part of the league’s internal structure, not as external or adversarial parties.

Players and GMs may:

• Disagree with calls or decisions

• Raise concerns respectfully

• Request stat reviews through approved channels

• Submit feedback to the league office

Players and GMs may not:

• Publicly target league staff

• Harass, intimidate, or degrade officials or staff

• Engage in sustained personal attacks

• Incite harassment through social media or group communication

Violations of these standards may result in warnings, suspensions, or further disciplinary action as deemed appropriate by the league.

1.6 Player Responsibility and Assumption of Risk

Dream League is a contact sport. All participants acknowledge that participation involves inherent physical risk, including the risk of injury.

By participating in Dream League, players:

• Assume all inherent risks associated with gameplay

• Acknowledge that no sport can guarantee safety

• Agree to comply with league safety protocols and decisions

Players will be required to sign waivers acknowledging these risks. The league does not provide guarantees of safety.

1.7 Culture, Respect, and Competitive Conduct

Dream League encourages:

• Passion

• Competitive fire

• Strategic discussion

• Film-based critique

Dream League does not permit:

• Personal ridicule

• Harassment

• Threats or intimidation

• Behavior that undermines mutual respect

Critique must be rooted in gameplay, effort, or strategy — not personal attacks. The league draws a clear distinction between competitive critique and personal degradation.

1.8 Amendments and Evolution

Dream League recognizes that leagues evolve.

Rules, structures, schedules, salary mechanisms, and formats may change over time. Any changes:

• Will be communicated clearly

• Will be implemented with notice when possible

• Will prioritize transparency and league stability

Section 2 – League Calendar, Season Structure, and Playoffs

2.1 League Seasons and Structure

Dream League operates on a seasonal model. Each season consists of a defined preseason period, a regular season, and a postseason. The league may operate one or two seasons per calendar year depending on growth stage, field availability, and operational capacity.

Dream League 1 will operate as a single standalone season. Beginning in subsequent years, Dream League may operate two seasons per year, with each season treated as an independent competitive unit with its own combine, draft, regular season, postseason, and awards.

2.2 Preseason Components

Each season may include the following preseason elements, as defined in the official league calendar:

• Player Combines
  Combines are conducted prior to each season and are used to evaluate players for initial salary assignment. Combines may span multiple weeks and may include speed, agility, throwing, catching, and football-specific drills. Attendance requirements and formats are determined by the league office.

• Draft Periods
  Each season includes a draft period following the combine window. Drafts may include:

• A rookie draft

• An expansion draft, if applicable
  Draft formats, round counts, time limits, and sequencing are defined by the league office and published in advance.

2.3 Regular Season Format

The Dream League regular season consists of eight (8) weeks.

• Teams play two games per league night, resulting in a 16-game regular season.

• Standings are determined by win-loss record.

• Tiebreakers (if required) are determined by criteria defined by the league office (e.g., head-to-head, point differential, or other published metrics).

The league reserves the right to adjust game counts or scheduling formats in future seasons as league size changes.

2.4 League Night Assumptions

For planning and illustrative purposes, league events are assumed to occur on a single designated league night each week. This designation is not permanent and may change based on venue availability and league growth.

The official league night and schedule will be published prior to each season in the official league calendar.

2.5 Playoff Structure

The Dream League postseason follows the conclusion of the regular season. Playoff eligibility, seeding, and structure are defined prior to the start of each season.

There are no consolation brackets unless explicitly announced by the league office.

2.5.1 Dream League 1 Playoff Format (Eight-Team Season)

Dream League 1 will consist of eight (8) teams. Six (6) teams will qualify for the postseason.

• The #1 and #2 seeds receive first-round byes.

• The #3 seed plays the #6 seed in the opening round.

• The #4 seed plays the #5 seed in the opening round.

• In the semifinal round:

• The #1 seed plays the lowest remaining seed.

• The #2 seed plays the highest remaining remaining seed.

• Winners advance to the championship game.

This playoff format is specific to Dream League 1 and may be modified in future seasons as league size and structure evolve.

2.6 Championship Week

The postseason culminates in a single championship week. The championship game determines the season champion.

Regular season statistics, postseason results, and awards are recorded as part of the league’s permanent historical record.

2.7 Expansion and Future Seasons

Future seasons may include expansion teams. When expansion occurs, the league office will define:

• Expansion timing

• Expansion draft procedures

• Roster protection rules

• Any season-specific adjustments to scheduling or playoff format

All such rules will be communicated clearly prior to the affected season.

Section 3 — League Conduct, Culture, and Integrity

3.1 Purpose and Cultural Standard

Dream League is built as a serious recreational league — competitive, structured, emotionally invested, and human. Players, GMs, officials, media, and staff are all participating in a shared ecosystem where effort, respect, and accountability matter.

Participation in Dream League is voluntary, but once you participate, the standard applies. This league values intensity without hostility, critique without ridicule, and ambition without entitlement.

The goal is not perfection.
The goal is trust, fairness, and belonging inside a competitive environment.

3.2 Foundation Members

“Foundation Members” refers to all individuals who make league operations possible, including but not limited to:

• Game officials

• Statisticians and stat review staff

• Scoreboard operators

• Media crew (video, photography, commentary, social)

• League operations staff

These individuals are considered part of the Dream League Foundation.

Participants may:

• Disagree with calls

• Request stat reviews through proper channels

• Raise concerns respectfully to the league office

Participants may not:

• Publicly target, harass, intimidate, or degrade Foundation members

• Incite others to harass league staff

• Engage in repeated or hostile personal attacks

Abuse of Foundation members is treated as conduct detrimental to the league.

3.3 Player Conduct Expectations

Players are expected to:

• Compete honestly and aggressively within the rules

• Respect opponents, officials, staff, and the league environment

• Accept criticism when supported by film or data

Trash talk is allowed.
Passion is allowed.
Emotion is allowed.

Personal attacks, harassment, intimidation, or fighting are not allowed.

Fighting is a suspendable offense and may result in further discipline depending on severity.

3.4 GM Conduct Expectations

General Managers are ambassadors of the league culture. While unpaid, GMs are entrusted with competitive integrity and player experience.

GMs are expected to:

• Act in good faith during transactions

• Communicate honestly with players

• Maintain roster integrity and availability awareness

• Engage respectfully with league staff

Persistent inactivity, abandonment, or negligence that negatively impacts players or league operations may result in GM removal at the league’s discretion.

3.5 Critique vs. Ridicule

Dream League draws a firm distinction between critique and ridicule.

• Critique is performance-based, supported by film, stats, or observable behavior.

• Ridicule is personal, demeaning, or intended to embarrass rather than inform.

League media may criticize performance.
League media may analyze mistakes.
League media may discuss accountability.

League media may not:

• Attack personal character

• Mock personal traits

• Incite harassment

This applies equally to players, GMs, and league staff.

3.6 Social Media and Public Conduct

Dream League does not police off-field behavior broadly. However, behavior that:

• Harms league reputation

• Targets league participants

• Encourages harassment or intimidation

• Involves threats or repeated abuse

may result in league discipline if it is clearly connected to Dream League participation.

3.7 Commissioner Authority

The Commissioner serves as the final authority on matters of:

• Player safety

• League integrity

• Time-sensitive decisions

• Behavior clearly detrimental to the league

The Commissioner does not play in the league and does not serve as a GM.

The role is singular and independent.

Certain actions may be taken unilaterally by the Commissioner when delay would materially harm the league.

3.8 Conflict Resolution Pathway

The default resolution pathway is:

1. Player ↔ GM (private conversation)

2. GM ↔ Commissioner

3. Commissioner mediation or ruling

Group votes may be triggered only when explicitly outlined elsewhere in the Constitution.

A 75% supermajority of GMs is required to override a Commissioner decision when such an override is permitted.

3.9 Transactions and Good Faith

All trades, signings, releases, and roster actions must be submitted through the official league transaction system, which may include a designated league phone number or electronic submission process.

Transactions are not considered official until received through approved channels.

Good-faith participation is expected.
Attempts to exploit loopholes, manipulate timing, or circumvent roster rules may result in penalties.

3.10 Discipline and Enforcement

The league reserves the right to issue:

• Warnings

• Suspensions

• Fines (if applicable in future seasons)

• Removal from the league

Discipline is contextual, proportional, and intended to protect the league ecosystem — not to punish arbitrarily.

3.11 Core Principle

Dream League is not just a schedule of games.
It is a shared experience built on trust.

If a participant consistently undermines that trust, the league will act.

Section 4 — Salary Cap, Contracts, and Competitive Balance

4.1 Purpose of the Salary Cap

The Dream League salary cap exists for one primary reason:

To protect belonging.

The salary cap is not designed to punish talent, artificially equalize outcomes, or frustrate General Managers. Instead, it ensures that the league has room for:

• High-end talent

• Developmental players

• Reliable role players

• Players who show up, compete, and care

By limiting total roster value, the cap prevents teams from being stacked purely on raw ability and forces trade-offs instead of exclusions.

There is a place for you here.
That place matters.

Talent alone is not enough.
Fit, chemistry, dependability, and effort matter.

4.2 Nature of Dream League Salaries

All Dream League salaries are hypothetical values.

Players are not paid these salaries.
General Managers are not paid.
No money changes hands between teams and players.

Salaries exist as a shared language for:

• Roster construction

• Trade discussion

• Media analysis

• Competitive balance

It is expected — and encouraged — for discourse such as:

• “This is a $17M player playing like a $25M player”

• “This is a $12M player currently performing like a $4M player”

Just like real professional leagues, Dream League will have:

• Good contracts

• Bad contracts

• Incredible value contracts

• Overvalued contracts

That friction is intentional.

4.3 League Salary Cap Philosophy

The salary cap directly influences the level of play on the field.

A higher cap:

• Allows more high-end talent per roster

• Raises overall league quality

• Reduces exclusion of lower-salary contributors

A lower cap:

• Forces sharper trade-offs

• Increases roster tension

• Emphasizes fit and role discipline

In early league years, the salary cap may be set slightly higher to ensure:

• A strong on-field product

• Meaningful roles for lower-salary players

• Fewer players pushed entirely out of the league

A $4M player may only see 8–12 snaps per night.
That is still a role.
That role still matters.

4.4 Salary Cap Calculation

The Dream League salary cap is recalculated each season.

The cap is determined by:

• A defined number of rostered players used as the salary baseline

• A league-determined multiplier applied to that baseline

Example:

• If the league uses the top 80 players, the cap reflects that pool

• If the league expands to 120 players, the baseline expands accordingly

• If the league expands to 160 players, the baseline expands again

The cap is not permanently fixed to one number and will evolve as the league grows.

The league office will communicate:

• The player pool size used

• The multiplier applied

• The resulting salary cap

before each season begins.

4.5 Salary Assignment Timing

All player salaries are assigned before the draft, not after.

Salaries are determined by the league office following:

• Combine performance

• Submitted workout footage

• Observational data

This ensures:

• Full salary transparency entering drafts

• Informed GM decision-making

• No hidden post-draft adjustments

Teams will know exactly what each player costs before selecting them.

4.6 Imperfect Information Acknowledgment

The league openly acknowledges that salary assignments are made with limited information, especially for new players.

Mistakes will happen.

A player assigned:

• $20M may significantly outperform expectations

• $8M may turn out to be a top-tier contributor

This is not a flaw — it is a feature of competitive leagues.

To protect stability, Dream League uses controlled reassessment rules rather than reactive corrections.

4.7 Salary Reassessment Limits

Salary changes are restricted, even when the league knows it was wrong.

A player’s salary may:

• Increase by no more than 20% per season

• Decrease only through waiver reassessment mechanisms

Examples:

• A $20M first-round pick who dominates can only rise to $24M after Year 1

• An $8M player who proves elite becomes an exceptional contract — by design

There are no emergency overrides.
There are no “we messed up” corrections.

Good contracts and bad contracts are part of the league ecosystem.

4.8 Contract Lengths by Draft Round

Contract lengths are determined by acquisition method:

• First-round draft picks

• Three-season contract

• Includes a no-trade clause

• All other draft picks

• Two-season contracts

• Expansion draft selections

• Retain their existing contract terms

• Creatures / short-term designations

• One-season contracts

There is no limit to how many first-round contracts a team may hold.

4.9 No-Trade Clause Rules

No-trade clauses apply only to:

• Players drafted in the first round of the rookie draft

No-trade clauses:

• Remain with the contract if the player is claimed or acquired

• Do not prevent a player from being cut

• Do not prevent waiver claims

If a player with a no-trade clause is released and claimed, the clause remains intact.

4.10 Salary Cap Compliance

Teams must remain under the salary cap at all times.

There is:

• No dead cap

• No penalty for cutting contracts

• No partial cap charges

Cap compliance is enforced in real time by the league office.

4.11 Core Principle

The salary cap does not exist to keep players out.

It exists to ensure:

• Everyone has a role

• Everyone belongs

• Teams must choose, not hoard

Dream League is competitive because it is constrained.

Section 5 – Rosters, Reserve Lists, and Player Availability

5.1 Active Rosters

Each team maintains an active roster of players eligible to participate in Dream League games. Roster size limits, positional requirements (if any), and salary cap constraints are defined elsewhere in this Constitution.

Players on the active roster are eligible to play, accrue statistics, and are subject to weekly league fees.

5.2 Roster Lock Timing

Weekly rosters lock at 8:00 p.m. on the night before league play.

• Only players on a team’s active roster at the time of roster lock are eligible to participate in that week’s games.

• No player additions, cuts, or claims may be processed after roster lock until the following transaction window.

• Roster lock timing applies equally to regular season and postseason weeks unless otherwise specified.

Exact weekly deadlines are referenced in the official league calendar.

5.3 Reserve Lists – General Overview

Dream League uses reserve lists to manage player availability while maintaining roster and salary integrity. Players placed on reserve lists do not count against the active roster and do not incur weekly player charges.

Reserve lists are not punitive by default; they exist to account for real-world availability, injury, and league logistics.

The league recognizes the following reserve lists:

5.4 Short-Term Injured Reserve (Short-Term IR)

Short-Term IR is used for players who are temporarily unable to play due to injury.

• Players placed on Short-Term IR are expected to return during the same season.

• Placement removes the player from the active roster.

• Players on Short-Term IR do not accrue weekly charges while inactive.

• Upon recovery, the player is reactivated to the active roster, subject to roster size and salary cap compliance.

Short-Term IR does not count as a season-ending designation.

5.5 Season-Ending Injured Reserve (Season IR)

Season IR is used when a player is unable to return for the remainder of the season.

• Placement removes the player from the active roster for the rest of the season.

• Players on Season IR do not incur weekly charges.

• A player placed on Season IR does accrue a contract year, provided the season has begun.

Season IR may be used during the postseason only under rules outlined in Section 6.

5.6 Suspended Reserve

Suspended Reserve applies to players suspended by the league due to disciplinary action.

• Suspended players are removed from the active roster.

• Suspended players do not play or incur weekly charges.

• Suspension length and reinstatement terms are determined by the league office.

• A suspended player may not be activated until the suspension is formally lifted.

Suspended players remain under contract unless otherwise specified.

5.7 Non-Reporting Reserve

Non-Reporting Reserve applies when a player is traded, claimed, or assigned to a team but fails to make themselves available to participate.

• “Reporting” does not require a physical location; it requires a clear, timely confirmation that the player intends to participate and is available for upcoming games.

• Players who do not report by 8:00 p.m. prior to the next scheduled league night may be placed on Non-Reporting Reserve.

• Players on Non-Reporting Reserve do not play and do not incur weekly charges.

• Players on Non-Reporting Reserve are effectively inactive until they re-engage with the league.

Failure to report may result in further league action, including suspension or removal from league eligibility, at the league’s discretion.

5.8 Contract Year Accrual and Reserve Status

Contract year treatment depends on timing and designation:

• Season IR: Contract year accrues if the season has begun.

• Short-Term IR: Contract year accrues.

• Non-Reporting Reserve:

• If placed before Week 4 kickoff, the season does not accrue.

• If placed after Week 4 kickoff, the season does accrue.

• Retired Reserve (if applicable): Contract year accrual follows league determination based on timing.

These rules exist to balance fairness, roster continuity, and long-term planning.

5.9 Weekly Eligibility

A player is eligible to play in a given week if:

• They are on the active roster at roster lock,

• They are not on any reserve list,

• They are not suspended,

• And they are compliant with league rules.

Players added after roster lock are not eligible for that week.

5.10 Player Charges and Participation

Players are charged on a weekly basis only while on an active roster.

• Players on reserve lists are not charged.

• Free agents are considered part of the league ecosystem but are not charged.

• Weekly billing reflects actual participation, not contractual obligation.

5.11 Players Not Reporting After Trades

If a player is traded and does not report:

• The player may be placed on Non-Reporting Reserve.

• The player does not play and does not pay.

• The trade remains valid unless voided by the league for integrity reasons.

This framework acknowledges that Dream League players are participants, not employees, while preserving competitive balance.

5.12 Roster Integrity

Roster management is a core responsibility of each GM. While the league office administers billing and enforcement, teams are expected to manage availability responsibly and communicate clearly with players.

The league reserves the right to intervene when roster handling materially harms players, competitive integrity, or league operations.

Section 6 – Waivers, Releases, Reassessment, and Playoff Roster Rules

6.1 Purpose of the Waiver System

The waiver system exists to:

• Preserve competitive balance,

• Protect teams from talent hoarding,

• Create opportunity for player revaluation,

• And ensure transparency when players are released.

Waivers are a league mechanism, not a punishment.

6.2 Waiver Eligibility

A player is placed on waivers when they are released by their team.

“Released” includes:

• Being cut from the active roster for non-injury reasons,

• Being removed from a roster while under contract.

Injury-based reserve placements do not trigger waivers.

6.3 Weekly Waiver Run

Dream League operates with one fixed weekly waiver run.

• Waiver claims are processed once per week

• Wednesday at 12:00 p.m. (noon) local time

• Waiver order is determined by reverse standings

• Waiver priority always resets to reverse standings

There are no rolling waivers and no live claims.

6.4 Claiming a Player

Any team may submit a waiver claim during the open waiver window.

• Claims are confidential until processed

• If multiple teams submit a claim, the team with higher waiver priority is awarded the player

• Claimed players immediately join the claiming team’s active roster, subject to salary cap compliance

6.5 Salary Treatment on Waiver Claims

If a player is claimed off waivers, the player:

• Retains their existing contract and salary

• Does not receive a salary reassessment

By claiming the player, the team is explicitly agreeing to the player’s current valuation.

6.6 Clearing Waivers

If a player is not claimed during the waiver run, they are considered to have cleared waivers.

Upon clearing waivers:

• The player becomes a free agent

• The player receives a league-assigned reassessed salary

• The reassessed salary applies immediately

The reassessment reflects updated league evaluation based on performance, usage, availability, and market dynamics.

6.7 Signing a Player After Clearing Waivers

A player who clears waivers may be signed by any team, with one restriction:

• The team that most recently released the player does not receive the benefit of the reduced reassessed salary

That team may still sign the player, but:

• They must do so at the player’s prior salary, or

• At the higher of the two salaries if the reassessment increases the player’s value

All other teams may sign the player at the reassessed salary.

6.8 Multiple Waiver Cycles

If a player:

• Is released,

• Clears waivers,

• Is signed,

• And is later released again in the same season,

That player:

• Goes through waivers again,

• May receive a new reassessed salary upon clearing.

In this scenario, any team, including a team that released the player earlier in the season, may sign the player at the newly reassessed salary — provided they were not the most recent releasing team.

6.9 Final Waiver Run and Roster Lock

The final waiver run of the season occurs before Week 8 roster lock.

• No waiver claims are processed after this point

• Waivers are closed for the remainder of the season and postseason

This does not eliminate free agents, but it does eliminate competitive waiver claims.

6.10 Playoff Roster Lock

Playoff rosters lock at the conclusion of Week 8 roster lock.

After roster lock:

• No players may be cut

• No waiver claims may be processed

• Roster continuity is preserved for postseason integrity

6.11 Post-Week 8 Injury Replacement

After playoff rosters lock, teams may only modify their roster in one circumstance:

• A player suffers a legitimate injury after Week 8 roster lock

In this case:

• The injured player may be placed on Season-Ending Injured Reserve

• The team may sign a free agent to replace the injured player

• The replacement player must have already been a free agent prior to roster lock

Strategic or cap-motivated reserve placements are prohibited.

6.12 Injury Verification and Abuse Prevention

The league reserves the right to:

• Request clarification or verification of injuries,

• Review suspicious reserve placements,

• Penalize roster circumvention attempts.

Penalties may include:

• Draft pick forfeiture,

• Loss of waiver priority,

• Or other league-determined sanctions.

6.13 Suspended Players During the Postseason

After Week 8:

• Suspended players may not be cut

• Suspensions do not create roster flexibility

• Suspended players remain on their assigned reserve list until reinstated

This prevents manipulation of postseason roster limits.

6.14 League Authority

All waiver rulings, reassessments, and eligibility determinations are administered by the league office.

League decisions are subject to post-hoc review under governance procedures but are immediately enforceable to ensure league flow.

Section 7 – Trades, Transactions, and League Approval

7.1 Purpose of the Trade System

Trades exist to:

• Encourage strategic team building,

• Create roster flexibility,

• Reward foresight and creativity,

• And enhance competitive balance over time.

Trades are a privilege, not a right. All trades must serve the long-term health of the league.

7.2 Trade Eligibility

Teams may trade:

• Active roster players,

• Players on any reserve list (including injured, suspended, or non-reporting),

• Draft pick swaps, as defined in Section 11.

Teams may not trade:

• Cash or real-world compensation,

• League fees,

• Future considerations not explicitly defined by league rules.

7.3 Players on Reserve Lists

Players on the following reserve lists are eligible to be traded:

• Short-Term Injured Reserve,

• Season-Ending Injured Reserve,

• Suspended Reserve,

• Non-Reporting Reserve.

When traded:

• The receiving team assumes the player’s full existing contract,

• Including salary, contract length, and any restrictions.

Reserve status transfers with the player.

7.4 Trade Timing and Deadline

Trades may be submitted up until the official trade deadline, which is:

• Thursday following Week 5, as defined in the league calendar.

Trades submitted before the deadline remain valid even if:

• Approval occurs after the deadline,

• Reporting or administrative processing extends beyond the deadline.

No trades may be initiated after the deadline.

7.5 Trade Submission Process

All trades must be submitted through the league’s official transaction system.

• Informal agreements, texts, or verbal commitments are not binding

• Trades are not considered active until officially submitted

The league will not process trades communicated through unofficial channels.

7.6 League Review and Approval

All trades are reviewed by the league office.

Trades are evaluated based on:

• Competitive balance,

• Salary cap compliance,

• Intent and good faith,

• Long-term league health.

Approval is typically rapid but not automatic.

7.7 League Veto Authority

The league may veto a trade if it determines that the trade:

• Is clearly harmful to competitive integrity,

• Appears exploitative or coercive,

• Risks destabilizing the league ecosystem,

• Or reflects abandonment or disengagement by a GM.

Vetoes are rare but final, subject to governance procedures.

7.8 Player Reporting After Trades

Players traded are expected to report to their new team.

Reporting is defined as:

• Confirming availability to play,

• Intending to participate in league games.

There are no practices or facilities; reporting is an acknowledgment of participation.

7.9 Non-Reporting Players

If a player refuses or fails to report after being traded:

• The player is placed on Non-Reporting Reserve

• The player does not play

• The player does not pay league fees

The league may:

• Void the trade,

• Modify the trade,

• Or uphold the trade at its discretion.

The receiving team is not penalized for a player’s refusal to report.

7.10 Player Autonomy and League Authority

Dream League recognizes that players are not paid employees.

However:

• Participation implies commitment to league process,

• Refusal to report removes the player from active competition,

• The league retains final authority over roster resolution.

Players who repeatedly refuse to report may face suspension or removal from the league.

7.11 Salary and Contract Continuity

All traded players retain:

• Their existing salary,

• Remaining contract length,

• Any no-trade clauses or restrictions.

There is no renegotiation as part of a trade.

7.12 Trade Reversals and Amendments

The league may amend or reverse a trade if:

• Material information was misrepresented,

• A player becomes unavailable due to non-reporting,

• Or unforeseen integrity concerns arise.

All such actions prioritize fairness and league stability.

7.13 No Trades During the Postseason

Once playoff rosters lock:

• No trades may be initiated or processed

• Roster continuity is preserved for postseason integrity

7.14 League Philosophy on Trades

Trades should:

• Be competitive,

• Be thoughtful,

• Be defensible.

The league does not exist to “save” teams from bad decisions—but it will intervene when a decision threatens the league as a whole.

Section 8 – League Governance and Commissioner Authority

8.1 Role of the Commissioner

The Commissioner is the sole governing authority of Dream League.

The Commissioner:

• Does not play in the league,

• Does not serve as a General Manager,

• Does not hold any team-affiliated role,

• Operates exclusively in a league-wide capacity.

The Commissioner may also participate in league media and storytelling but holds no competitive position within the league.

8.2 Purpose of Centralized Governance

Dream League operates with:

• Unpaid General Managers,

• Paid players,

• Seasonal expansion,

• A dynamic salary cap system.

Because of this structure, centralized governance is required to:

• Protect competitive integrity,

• Resolve ambiguity quickly,

• Prevent exploitation or abandonment,

• Maintain trust across the league ecosystem.

8.3 Commissioner Authority

The Commissioner has the authority to:

• Interpret and enforce the Constitution,

• Approve or veto trades and transactions,

• Assign, reassess, and enforce player salaries,

• Administer discipline,

• Resolve disputes,

• Act in the best interest of the league.

This authority exists to protect the league as a whole—not individual teams.

8.4 Situations Requiring Immediate Commissioner Action

The Commissioner may act unilaterally when:

• Player safety is at risk,

• League integrity is threatened,

• Time-sensitive decisions are required,

• Behavior is clearly detrimental to the league,

• A dispute cannot wait for group review.

Such actions are valid immediately and may be reviewed after the fact.

8.5 Review and Accountability

Commissioner actions may be reviewed if:

• A formal request is submitted,

• The issue materially impacts competitive balance or league integrity.

Review does not imply reversal.

8.6 GM Override Mechanism

General Managers may override a Commissioner decision only with a supermajority vote.

• A supermajority is defined as 75% of all active GMs

• Abstentions count as non-votes

• Overrides are rare and reserved for extraordinary circumstances

Simple majority is insufficient.

8.7 Scope of GM Authority

General Managers:

• Control roster decisions for their teams,

• Make trades and transactions within league rules,

• Represent their team within the league.

General Managers do not:

• Override league rules,

• Independently interpret the Constitution,

• Bypass league approval processes.

8.8 Conflict of Interest

The Commissioner may not:

• Favor any team,

• Hold assets or influence outcomes,

• Participate in competitive decision-making.

All actions must be defensible as league-first decisions.

8.9 Dispute Resolution Pathway

When disputes arise, the default resolution path is:

1. Player → GM (private resolution)

2. GM → Commissioner (formal escalation)

3. Commissioner Decision (binding unless overridden)

Group votes are used only when explicitly required.

8.10 Player Access to League Office

Players may contact the league office directly to:

• Raise concerns,

• Report misconduct,

• Seek clarification.

Direct contact does not bypass GM authority but ensures transparency and player protection.

8.11 League Staff as Neutral Parties

Officials, statisticians, scoreboard staff, and media crew:

• Operate under league authority,

• Are evaluated internally,

• Are protected from harassment or intimidation.

Disputes involving staff are handled exclusively by the league office.

8.12 Evolution of Governance

As Dream League grows:

• Governance structures may evolve,

• Additional checks or councils may be introduced,

• Authority distribution may be revisited.

All changes will be communicated clearly and intentionally.

8.13 Governing Philosophy

Dream League governance is built on:

• Trust,

• Clarity,

• Accountability,

• Stability.

The goal is not control—but stewardship.

Section 9 – Statistics, Records, Media, and Awards

9.1 Purpose of Statistics

Statistics in Dream League serve four purposes:

1. Competitive evaluation,

2. Historical record,

3. Media storytelling,

4. Player recognition.

Stats are not cosmetic. They are foundational to the league’s identity, salary ecosystem, and narrative.

9.2 Official Stat Authority

All official statistics are:

• Recorded by league-appointed statisticians,

• Maintained by the league office,

• Separate from officiating decisions.

Officials rule on the game.
Stat crews rule on the record.

9.3 Stat Finalization Window

• All game statistics are provisional immediately after games conclude.

• Statistics become official 96 hours (4 days) after game completion.

This extended window exists to:

• Encourage film review,

• Promote accuracy,

• Support thoughtful correction requests.

9.4 Stat Review and Corrections

• GMs and players may submit stat review requests within the 96-hour window.

• Requests must be specific and supported by video when possible.

• The league office makes all final determinations.

Once locked, stats are permanent.

9.5 Public Transparency

All statistics are public.

This includes:

• Individual stats,

• Team stats,

• Advanced metrics,

• Historical records.

Transparency is a feature, not a risk.

9.6 Core Individual Statistics Tracked

Quarterbacks

• Passing Attempts

• Passing Completions

• Completion Percentage

• Passing Yards

• Passing Touchdowns

• Interceptions

• Yards Per Attempt

• Yards Per Completion

• Rushing Yards

• Rushing Touchdowns

Scrambles and designed runs are both recorded as rushing.

Receivers / Skill Players

• Targets

• Receptions

• Receiving Yards

• Receiving Touchdowns

• Yards Per Reception

• Drops

Laterals do not create additional receptions beyond the initial catch.

Rushing

• Rushing Attempts

• Rushing Yards

• Rushing Touchdowns

• Yards Per Attempt

Defense

• Flag Pulls (Tackles)

• Sacks (½ sack credited when shared)

• Interceptions

• Passes Defensed

• Tipped Passes

A tipped pass that leads to an interception credits:

• Pass defense to the tipper,

• Interception to the catcher.

9.7 Team Statistics

Team-level stats may include:

• Drive count,

• Touchdown drive percentage,

• Plays per drive,

• Turnovers forced,

• Turnovers on downs forced.

These stats support media storytelling and evaluation, not standings tiebreakers unless specified elsewhere.

9.8 Edge Case Philosophy

Dream League tracks stats to reflect what actually happened on the field, not what “feels fair.”

Edge cases (laterals, backward passes, hybrid plays) follow standardized league definitions, which are governed by league policy and clarified in supplemental documentation.

9.9 Records and Historical Tracking

The league maintains:

• Single-game records,

• Season records,

• Career records,

• Team records.

Records remain intact across seasons and expansions.

9.10 Awards

Dream League awards are intended to recognize excellence, growth, and impact.

League Awards

• Most Valuable Player (MVP)

• Offensive Player of the Year

• Defensive Player of the Year

• Rookie of the Year

• Most Improved Player

All-League Teams

• First Team All-Dream League

• Second Team All-Dream League

Each team reflects a functional roster (e.g., QB, linemen, skill players).

9.11 Award Voting Structure

Awards are determined by a balanced voting system:

• 33% League Office & Media

• 33% General Managers

• 33% Players

No single group controls outcomes.

9.12 Media Integration

Stats are the backbone of Dream League media.

They inform:

• Weekly recaps,

• Power rankings,

• Film breakdowns,

• Player narratives,

• League storytelling.

Performance will be discussed openly and honestly.

9.13 Critique vs. Disrespect

Dream League media may:

• Critique performance,

• Analyze decisions,

• Highlight strengths and weaknesses.

It may not:

• Attack character,

• Humiliate players,

• Engage in personal ridicule.

Film-supported critique is fair game.

9.14 Legacy and Identity

Stats are how Dream League remembers.

They give players:

• A record,

• A voice,

• A footprint in the league’s history.

You are not just playing games.
You are building a résumé inside a living system.

Section 10 – Waivers and Salary Reassessment

10.1 Purpose of the Waiver System

The waiver system exists to:

• Protect competitive balance,

• Prevent talent hoarding,

• Create opportunity for underutilized players,

• Provide a structured pathway for salary correction.

Waivers are not punitive.
They are a recalibration mechanism.

10.2 When a Player Is Placed on Waivers

A player is placed on waivers when they are released by their team.

Release may occur:

• During the regular season,

• While under contract,

• For any non-injury reason.

There are no partial releases.
A released player always enters waivers.

10.3 Waiver Order

• Waiver priority is determined by reverse standings.

• Worst team receives first priority.

• Best team receives last priority.

• Waiver order resets automatically and continuously based on standings.

There is no waiver priority “rolling” or carryover.

10.4 Waiver Schedule

• Dream League operates with one fixed waiver run per week.

• Waivers process Wednesdays at 12:00 PM (noon).

• This timing is defined in the official league calendar.

All waiver claims must be submitted before the weekly deadline.

10.5 Claiming a Player

• Any team may submit a waiver claim.

• The team with the highest priority is awarded the player.

• Claimed players immediately join the claiming team’s roster.

Claiming teams inherit the player’s existing contract, unless reassessment applies (see below).

10.6 Salary Reassessment Triggers

Salary reassessment occurs when:

• A player clears waivers, or

• A player is claimed off waivers.

Reassessment is handled exclusively by the league office.

10.7 Clearing Waivers

If a player clears waivers:

• They become a free agent,

• Their reassessed salary applies immediately,

• They may be signed by any team except the team that most recently released them at the reduced salary.

Important clarification:

• The releasing team may re-sign the player only at the original (rolled-forward) contract salary, not the reduced reassessed salary.

• All other teams may sign the player at the reassessed salary.

If the reassessed salary is higher than the original salary, the higher salary applies to all teams, including the releasing team.

10.8 Successful Waiver Claims

If a player is claimed:

• The reassessed salary applies immediately,

• The claiming team assumes the reassessed contract,

• The releasing team receives no benefit from the reassessment.

Claiming a player signals league belief that the reassessed valuation is appropriate.

10.9 Multiple Waiver Cycles

A player may:

• Be released,

• Clear waivers,

• Be signed,

• Be released again later in the same season.

Each release initiates a new waiver process and a new reassessment.

Once a player has been rostered by another team, the original releasing team is no longer restricted from benefiting from future reassessments.

10.10 Salary Authority

• All reassessed salaries are set by the league office.

• Teams may not negotiate or influence reassessment outcomes.

• Reassessments reflect performance, role, usage, and available data.

This system acknowledges imperfect information while preserving contract stability.

10.11 Waivers and Playoffs

• Waiver claims end at roster lock prior to Week 8.

• A final waiver run occurs before roster lock.

• No waiver claims are processed during the postseason.

10.12 Post-Lock Injury Replacement

After roster lock:

• Teams may not cut players.

• Teams may only place players on season-ending injured reserve.

• Injuries must be legitimate and occur after the Week 8 roster lock.

• Injury replacements must be free agents.

No waiver process occurs during playoffs.

10.13 Roster Circumvention and Penalties

Any attempt to:

• Misrepresent injury status,

• Manipulate reserve designations,

• Circumvent roster lock rules,

May result in league penalties, including:

• Draft pick compensation penalties,

• Reversal of transactions,

• Further disciplinary action at the commissioner’s discretion.

10.14 Philosophy of Reassessment

Salary reassessment is not about punishment or reward.

It exists because:

• Information evolves,

• Roles change,

• Performance fluctuates.

Some players become great contracts.
Some become difficult ones.

That tension is intentional.

Section 11 – Trades, Draft Assets, and Pick Swaps

11.1 Purpose of the Trade System

Trades exist to:

• Encourage strategic creativity,

• Allow teams to adjust direction midseason,

• Balance short-term competition with long-term stability.

Trades are a privilege, not a right.
All trades must protect league integrity.

11.2 Trade Approval

• All trades must be submitted through the official league transaction system.

• Trades are not official until approved by the league office.

• Review will be timely and efficient.

The league may veto or modify any trade deemed:

• Harmful to competitive balance,

• Clearly exploitative,

• Based on misrepresentation,

• Detrimental to the long-term health of the league.

11.3 Trade Windows

Trades are permitted:

• From the opening of the league year,

• Until the trade deadline (Thursday after Week 5 at 12:00 PM noon).

No trades are permitted:

• After the trade deadline,

• During the postseason.

Trades submitted before the deadline remain valid even if finalized afterward.

11.4 Eligible Trade Assets

Teams may trade:

• Players under contract,

• Draft pick swaps (as defined below).

Teams may not trade:

• Future salary cap space,

• Cash or fees,

• Promises of playing time,

• Conditional roster spots,

• League-controlled designations.

11.5 Player Trade Rules

• Players on active rosters, reserve lists, or non-reporting reserve lists are eligible to be traded.

• Contract terms transfer in full to the acquiring team.

• No contract terms may be altered as part of a trade.

There is no dead cap.

11.6 Player Non-Reporting After Trade

If a traded player fails to report:

• The player is placed on the Non-Reporting Reserve List,

• The player does not play or pay while unresolved,

• The league office may intervene to determine next steps.

Persistent non-reporting may result in suspension or removal from the league.

Draft Asset Rules

11.7 No Traditional Draft Pick Trading

Dream League does not allow traditional draft pick trading.

This is intentional.

Reasons include:

• Unpaid GMs,

• Seasonal expansion,

• Variable draft length,

• Protection against future asset stripping,

• Prevention of abandoned or crippled teams.

11.8 Draft Pick Swaps

Instead of trading picks, Dream League allows draft pick swaps.

A pick swap grants a team the option, not the obligation, to exchange draft positions.

11.9 In-Round Pick Swaps

An in-round swap:

• Occurs within the same round,

• Gives the receiving team the right to choose whether to swap positions.

If the receiving team’s pick is already better:

• The swap simply goes unused.

In-round swaps never force a team to move backward.

11.10 Cross-Round Pick Swaps

Cross-round swaps (e.g., 5th for 4th):

• Always convey,

• Do not depend on standings or position,

• Always move the receiving team up.

Whether the receiving team ultimately uses the pick depends on roster availability.

11.11 Swap Usage and Roster Limits

• Swaps convey regardless of roster size.

• A team may only use a swap if they are eligible to draft in that round.

• Unused swaps expire harmlessly.

No compensation is granted for unused swaps.

11.12 Same-Draft Restriction

All draft pick swaps must occur within the same draft.

Future-draft swaps are not permitted at this stage of league development.

11.13 Future Draft Assets (Deferred Activation)

Dream League recognizes that future draft assets add strategic depth.

However:

• Trading future draft assets will not be permitted until after Dream League 2.

• When introduced, swaps may extend no more than two seasons forward.

• All future swaps must still be same-round or cross-round swaps.

Details will be formally introduced in a future season.

11.14 Expansion Draft Considerations

• Expansion draft selections absorb the existing contract exactly as written.

• Contract length, salary, and restrictions carry over in full.

• Expansion draft picks are treated the same as any other roster acquisition.

11.15 League Oversight and Final Authority

The league reserves the right to:

• Reject trades that undermine league health,

• Require clarification before approval,

• Establish precedent through rulings.

No trade is final until approved.

11.16 Trade Philosophy

Trades should:

• Reflect real belief,

• Carry real risk,

• Force real decisions.

Short-term gain is allowed.
Long-term damage is not.

Section 12 – Uniforms, Appearance, Equipment, and Game Presentation

12.1 Purpose

Dream League is a premium recreational league designed to feel professional, intentional, and elevated.
Uniforms, appearance standards, and game presentation exist to:

• Create visual clarity,

• Support media and storytelling,

• Promote equality and belonging,

• Reinforce that every participant is part of something larger than themselves.

This section is not about control.
It is about shared respect for the experience.

12.2 Official League Uniforms

• All players must wear official Dream League–issued jerseys during games.

• Jerseys include both tops and bottoms.

• Players may not participate without wearing the official uniform.

No exceptions.

12.3 Jersey Numbers

• Each player is assigned a jersey number for the season.

• Jersey numbers may not be changed mid-season.

• Number changes may only occur during the offseason and must be approved by the league office.

This ensures:

• Accurate stats,

• Clean media records,

• Consistent identity throughout the season.

12.4 Jersey Care and Return

• Jerseys remain the property of the league.

• Players are responsible for returning jerseys at the end of the season or upon exit.

• Failure to return issued jerseys may result in a charge to the card on file.

Replacement costs will be communicated in advance.

12.5 Equipment Standards

Permitted equipment includes:

• League-approved footballs,

• Mouthguards (strongly recommended),

• Soft gloves designed for flag football,

• Soft headwear or protective gear approved by officials.

Prohibited equipment includes:

• Hard or sharp objects,

• Jewelry not securely taped,

• Any gear deemed unsafe by officials.

Final authority on equipment rests with game officials.

12.6 Footwear

• Cleats must be appropriate for turf or field conditions.

• Metal spikes are prohibited unless explicitly approved by the league.

• Footwear decisions prioritize safety and field preservation.

12.7 Appearance and Branding

• Players may not alter jerseys in ways that obscure numbers, logos, or names.

• Tape, compression gear, and base layers are permitted but may not cover identifying elements.

• Team color integrity must be maintained.

Personal expression is welcome — clarity is mandatory.

12.8 Game Presentation Standards

Dream League games are filmed, tracked, and shared.

Players should expect:

• Cameras present,

• Stats recorded,

• Commentary or postgame coverage,

• Public-facing content.

By participating, players consent to:

• Being filmed,

• Having performance discussed,

• Being part of the league narrative.

This is part of the experience.

12.9 Media Conduct

Players may:

• Share league footage freely,

• Clip highlights,

• Promote themselves and their teams.

Players may not:

• Misrepresent league content,

• Harass or target other participants through league media,

• Monetize league footage without permission (unless explicitly allowed in the future).

The league retains ownership of official footage.

12.10 Respect for the Ecosystem

Uniforms, staff, media, officials, and presentation are all part of the Dream League ecosystem.

Players are expected to:

• Treat the environment with respect,

• Understand that their actions affect others’ experiences,

• Uphold the league’s shared standards.

This is not just a game night.
It is a collective experience.

12.11 Violations and Enforcement

Violations of this section may result in:

• Warnings,

• Removal from play,

• Fines or jersey replacement charges,

• Suspension at the commissioner’s discretion.

Enforcement will be consistent, transparent, and proportional.

12.12 Closing Statement

Dream League uniforms and presentation are not about image —
they are about belonging.

When everyone wears the same jersey, plays under the same lights, and shares the same stage, the experience becomes something more than competition.

It becomes real.

Section 13: Dream League Life

Dream League was built to be more than games, standings, or championships. Those things matter, but they are not the point.

Dream League exists to create something rare in adult life: a shared commitment to showing up, competing honestly, growing together, and caring about something beyond ourselves. It is a league, but it is also a community, a rhythm, and a responsibility. Every rule in this Constitution exists to protect that experience.

When you join Dream League, you are not just signing up to play. You are choosing to be part of a living ecosystem built on trust, effort, accountability, and respect for teammates, opponents, officials, staff, and the league itself. What you bring into the league shapes what it becomes.

Dream League will evolve. Rules will change. Seasons will expand. But the foundation remains the same: fairness over shortcuts, integrity over convenience, and people over outcomes.

At its best, Dream League becomes something that stays with you not because of what you won, but because of how it made you feel to belong, to compete, and to matter.

That is Dream League Life.