NFL raises 2026 salary cap to $301.2M, up $22M, reflecting growth and increased team flexibility.

The NFL has set the 2026 salary cap at $301.2 million, a $22 million increase from 2025, reflecting ongoing league growth driven by TV deals and popularity. This marks the third consecutive year of cap increases, following a pause in 2021 due to pandemic-related losses. The new cap, within earlier projections, boosts team flexibility for contracts and roster moves as free agency begins March 11. Top teams like the Titans, Raiders, and Jets have substantial cap space, while others, including the Cowboys and Bears, face financial constraints.