The Re-Entry Process, Stage 1 begins on Thursday at 12 p.m. CT. Similar to the End-of-Year Waivers process, teams select in the reverse order of their finish during the 2020 season, taking into account playoff performance and keeping in mind any trades impacting selection order. FC Cincinnati will hold the first selection, the MLS Cup champions Columbus Crew SC will get the 26th pick, and expansion club Austin FC will have the 27th.
Players who are eligible to be selected in the Re-Entry Draft include players who are at least 22 years old and have a minimum of one year of MLS service, who are out of contract and did not receive a Bona Fide Offer or whose contract options were not exercised by their clubs.