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After weeks of speculation, the NFL has confirmed one of the most anticipated announcements for teams: the salary cap will rise by nearly 8%, from $279.2 million in the 2025 season to $301.2 million in 2026.
This increase continues the upward trend of recent years. Since 2022, the salary cap has grown by approximately $93 million.
NFL Salary Cap Over the Years:
- 2013: $123M
- 2014: $133M
- 2015: $143.28M
- 2016: $155.27M
- 2017: $167M
- 2018: $177.2M
- 2019: $188.2M
- 2020: $198.2M
- 2021: $182.5M
- 2022: $208.2M
- 2023: $224.8M
- 2024: $255.4M
- 2025: $279.2M
- 2026: $301.2M
Although the average increase has been around $20 million per season, team salary expenditures often exceed the cap, though not all franchises are affected equally.
Teams that benefit most from the increase
According to estimates from Overthecap.com, the Tennessee Titans currently hold the most cap space, with $94.8 million available even before the increase.
On the other end of the spectrum, the Dak Prescott's Cowboys are the most over the cap, sitting $56.1 million above the limit. The Minnesota Vikings follow closely at $45.5 million over.
The reigning champion Seattle Seahawks also enjoy significant flexibility, with $59.6 million in available space before the increase. Meanwhile, the New England Patriots have $40.4 million in cap room.
The Kansas City Chiefs, who were $5.6 million over the cap, now find themselves with a slight surplus thanks to the adjustment. The Philadelphia Eagles, with $13.8 million in space before the announcement, more than doubled their available cap room.
What this means for Mendoza and the Raiders
Most analysts project Fernando Mendoza as the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, likely selected by the Las Vegas Raiders.
Fortunately for Mendoza, the Raiders hold the second-largest cap space in the league, with $89.2 million available before the increase.
This not only positions Mendoza for a strong entry-level contract but also gives the Raiders the financial flexibility to build a competitive roster around him-potentially one capable of making a playoff run.