NFL salary cap hits milestone at $301.2 million for 2026

INDIANAPOLIS -- 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 numbers were sent to clubs Friday, and teams must be under the salary cap by March 11, the first day of the new league year.

Total projected player costs, including benefits, are $378.8 million.

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48055711/nfl-salary-cap-hits-new-milestone-3012-million-2026

According to the link, the wide receiver position remains the second-most lucrative franchise tag at $27.3 million. Quarterback tag is tops at $43.9 million.