As the 2026 NFL offseason unfolds, we're witnessing some eye-popping cap hits that are reshaping the financial landscape of the league. With the salary cap soaring, teams are shelling out big bucks, especially for marquee quarterbacks.
But while some investments are paying dividends, others are more questionable. Let’s break down the top cap hits for this year and what they mean for each team.
10. Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys - $43,508,430
Dak Prescott remains a cornerstone for the Cowboys, who are poised to make a serious run this season. His impressive 2025 campaign was overshadowed by a struggling defense, but with improvements on that front, Dallas is in a strong position to capitalize on Prescott’s talents.
9. Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills - $44,228,000
Josh Allen’s hefty cap hit is a testament to his value to the Bills. As one of the league's elite teams, Buffalo sees this as a worthwhile investment, banking on Allen to lead them deep into the playoffs once again.
8. Chris Jones, Kansas City Chiefs - $44,850,000
Chris Jones remains a key player for the Chiefs, though his cap hit is substantial. Kansas City faces challenges in balancing their roster, needing to address other areas to maintain their competitive edge.
7. Deshaun Watson, Cleveland Browns - $44,956,514
The Browns are feeling the weight of Deshaun Watson’s contract, which is proving to be a financial burden. Despite this, Watson is set to compete for the starting role, as Cleveland navigates this costly commitment.
6. Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers - $46,345,675
Justin Herbert dazzles in the regular season but has yet to translate that success into the playoffs. The Chargers are hoping he can overcome these hurdles and justify his significant cap hit.
5. Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals - $47,999,784
Joe Burrow is a powerhouse for the Bengals, yet playoff appearances have eluded them recently. Despite front office challenges, Burrow’s talent keeps Cincinnati in the conversation as a formidable force when everything clicks.
4. Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams - $48,266,668
Even as he nears the twilight of his career, Matthew Stafford continues to deliver MVP-level performances. The Rams are committed to maximizing their window with Stafford at the helm, pushing all their chips in for another title run.
3. Kyler Murray, Minnesota Vikings - $51,711,466
After being released by the Cardinals, Kyler Murray finds himself with the Vikings. Arizona still bears the brunt of his massive cap hit, while Minnesota hopes Murray can be the spark they need under center.
2. Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers - $52,975,000
Baker Mayfield’s time in Tampa has been a rollercoaster. Despite a tough 2025 season, he’s shown flashes of brilliance. The Buccaneers are betting on his potential, even if his cap hit seems steep compared to his recent output.
1. Tua Tagovailoa, Atlanta Falcons - $56,267,647
Tua Tagovailoa’s release from Miami leaves them with the league’s highest cap hit. Now with the Falcons, he has a chance to prove himself anew. Atlanta is hopeful that Tua can emerge as a starting-caliber quarterback, making the most of this fresh start.
In the ever-evolving world of NFL contracts, these cap hits highlight the high-stakes game teams play in pursuit of success. While some gambles will pay off, others serve as cautionary tales in the delicate balance of team building.