In 2017, the NFL instituted the International Pathway Program to make it easier for players from abroad to enter the league. The idea is a simple one: players will get professional training opportunities to recommend themselves to the 32 organizations before the start of free agency. Should they not be signed to a contract, they will be added to teams in a randomly picked division and get a chance to compete for a roster spot.
Holding a roster exemption that allows the selected four teams to carry 91 instead of 90 players, the IPP-players are subsequently able to participate in spring practices, training camp, and preseason before roster cutdown day.