With a record-breaking $301.2 million salary cap per team, the NFL enters a high-stakes free agency period marked by blockbuster trades and massive spending power. Financial boundaries have been pushed to new heights as the NFL set the 2026 salary cap at a record $301.2 million per team. This represents a $22 million increase from the 2025 season, providing franchises with unprecedented flexibility to hunt for elite talent.
Marquee Names on the Market
Several high-profile stars are expected to dominate the negotiations this week:
- Kenneth Walker III (RB): The Seahawks’ Super Bowl LX MVP is the crown jewel of the running back market after his 135-yard championship performance.
- Kyler Murray (QB): The 28-year-old quarterback is set to depart Arizona, with his future in the league being one of the most watched storylines.
- Kirk Cousins (QB): The 37-year-old veteran enters the market after being released by the Falcons, bringing over $321 million in career earnings to the table.
- Mike Evans (WR): A legendary figure in Tampa, Evans is looking for a fresh start following an injury-plagued 2025 campaign.
The Blockbuster: Maxx Crosby to Baltimore
The trade market has already provided a shockwave. The Las Vegas Raiders have agreed to move star defensive end Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for this year’s No. 14 overall pick and a 2027 first-rounder.
This move provides the Raiders—part-owned by Tom Brady—with significant draft capital to rebuild. According to Spotrac, the Raiders enter the new league year with a staggering $119.4 million in available cap space, the most in the NFL.