There are two types of free play in steering. Rotational free play and the scary kind where you wonder if the wheel is going to fall into your lap. The former type is adjusted under the hood with a end wrench and screwdriver. The latter requires you remove the steering wheel to tighten the screws that hold a certain amount of load on the bearings in the column. The screws are usually holding the tilt wheel "knuckle" to the upper part of the shaft with the steering wheel. There is a metal plate for the steering lock under the wheel with holes in it allowing you to tighten the screws.
If the screws or bolts are tight, you may have bad bearings and need a replacement column.
I hope this helps.