As the NFL offseason progresses, teams across the league are grappling with complex financial decisions to manage their salary caps effectively. With guaranteed money, roster bonuses, and potential cuts looming large, the financial landscape for many teams is anything but straightforward.
The Atlanta Falcons currently have $10 million guaranteed and an additional $30 million that becomes guaranteed in mid-March, prompting the team to strategize its financial moves carefully. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens have a potential cap-saving opportunity. By cutting wide receiver Tyler Lockett before his roster bonus is due, they could save $11 million on this year's cap. Lockett's current cap number stands at $16.9 million, making this an enticing option for cap relief.
In Kansas City, tight end Travis Kelce is scheduled to earn $17 million this season. The Chiefs could explore restructuring options, such as pushing back his roster bonus deadline or considering a post-June 1 cut if he opts for retirement. Elsewhere, the Colts reassured fans that the extension of wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. does not hinder their cap situation.
The Dallas Cowboys face a significant financial commitment with linebacker Micah Parsons entering his fifth-year option season. His salary and cap number for 2025 are both set at $24.007 million. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Vikings and New York Jets would each have faced $63 million in dead money if they had retained quarterback Aaron Rodgers this season and cut him next offseason.
The New Orleans Saints are in a challenging position, aggressively working to reduce their expenses to get under the salary cap. For the San Francisco 49ers, trading Deebo Samuel would result in $31.55 million in dead money cap charges for 2025, a substantial financial implication to consider.
Von Miller of the Buffalo Bills finds himself in a precarious position with remaining money that is not guaranteed. In Minnesota, quarterback Kirk Cousins has $27.5 million in guaranteed salary scheduled for 2025. If he remains on the roster by the fifth day of the league year, his $10 million roster bonus for 2026 becomes fully guaranteed as well.
Quarterback Derek Carr stands out with a significant salary commitment as he is set to earn $40 million this season, highlighting the financial commitment teams make to secure top talent.
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