NFL teams are expected to have a little extra spending cash for their rosters during the 2026 season.
The NFL informed its clubs on Jan. 30 that the league's salary cap is expected to increase to between $301.2 million and $305.7 million per team in 2026, according to a person with knowledge of the announcement. The person spoke to USA TODAY on the condition of anonymity because the numbers were not yet official.
If finalized, the increase would be up to $26.5 million higher than the $279.2 million teams could work with under the 2025 cap.
NFL Network reporterTom Pelisserofirst reported the news. Pelissero reported that the exact number would be finalized before free agency opens on March 11.
Super Bowl VII ring: The Miami Dolphins beat Washington, 14-7, on Jan. 14, 1973." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Super Bowl XVII ring: Washington defeated the Miami Dolphins, 27-17, on Jan. 30, 1983." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Super Bowl XVIII ring: The Los Angeles Raiders beat Washington, 38-9, on Jan. 22, 1984." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Super Bowl XXII ring: Washington defeated the Denver Broncos, 42-10, on Jan. 31, 1988." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Super Bowl XXVI ring: Washington beat the Buffalo Bills, 37-24, on Jan. 26, 1992." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Super Bowl rings through the years
Since thesalary cap's inception in 1994, it has steadily risen from $34 million, topping $100 million in 2006 and $200 million in 2022.
Contributing: USA TODAY NFL reporter Tyler Dragon
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:NFL 2026 salary cap to exceed $300 million per team
