"The NFL salary cap has topped $300 million for the first time, landing at $301.2 million in 2026 for a $22 million increase over last year. The cap has increased 40% in just five years, since it dropped coming off the pandemic-altered 2020 season when few or no fans were allowed to attend games."
"The cap dropped to $182 million in 2021 from $198 million going into the pandemic season. The increase has been at least $16 million each year since then, with an average increase of $24 million."
"Rapid growth has been expected since the COVID-19 season, and the biggest year-to-year increase of $31 million came from 2023 to 2024."
The NFL salary cap has reached $301.2 million for the 2026 season, representing a $22 million increase from the previous year and breaking the $300 million threshold for the first time. This milestone reflects a 40% increase over five years since the pandemic-altered 2020 season when attendance was severely limited. The cap had dropped to $182 million in 2021 before beginning consistent annual growth, with increases averaging $24 million per year. The largest single-year increase of $31 million occurred between 2023 and 2024. Total projected player costs, including benefits, reach $378.8 million. Teams must comply with the salary cap by March 11, the start of the new league year. Franchise tag values reflect positional value, with quarterbacks at $43.9 million and wide receivers at $27.3 million.
Read at ESPN.com
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