Everything I've read says the dead period looks likely be extended through the end of the year. When will they announce it? Well, the current one expires in 24 days, so it's hard to imagine a decision not being made in the next week or so. But I haven't found when they're scheduled to meet next. My advice to all uncommitted players is to structure your recruiting plan around the premise that the DP is here for at least another 5 months. If by some miracle, it opens in less than 5 months, things will simply get better and "easier." Plan for the worst (get creative and aggressive) and hope for the best. In that order.