As the dust settles on the 2025 NFL season, 31 teams are already plotting their course for 2026. With the free agency market open for business, franchises have a prime opportunity to reshape their rosters and make a run for the title.
Super Bowl 60 showcased the impact of strategic spending in free agency. The New England Patriots led the charge, investing more in free agents than any other team, shelling out nearly $100 million more than their closest competitor. This aggressive approach paid dividends, bolstering both their offense and defense.
Meanwhile, the Seattle Seahawks also made significant moves, ranking fourth in free agency spending with $205 million. Their boldest acquisition? Quarterback Sam Darnold, whose leadership and skill were pivotal in securing a Super Bowl victory.
As we head into the 2026 offseason, the market is once again brimming with talent. All-Pro wide receiver George Pickens, defensive end Trey Hendrickson, and Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum are just a few names that could command hefty contracts.
But who has the financial muscle to make these signings?
The AFC teams are leading the charge in cap space, setting the stage for potential game-changing acquisitions. Could we witness another dramatic turnaround like the Patriots achieved, fueled by savvy investments in seasoned veterans?
Here's a look at how the cap space landscape shapes up across the league:
NFL Cap Space Rankings (as of Feb. 18):
- Tennessee Titans: $103.50 million
- Las Vegas Raiders: $91.52 million
- Los Angeles Chargers: $82.94 million
- New York Jets: $79.34 million
- Washington Commanders: $74.55 million
- Seattle Seahawks: $61.88 million
- Cincinnati Bengals: $53.49 million
- Los Angeles Rams: $44.94 million
- Pittsburgh Steelers: $44.94 million
- San Francisco 49ers: $41.87 million
- New England Patriots: $40.56 million
- Arizona Cardinals: $39.18 million
- Indianapolis Colts: $35.71 million
- Denver Broncos: $28.88 million
- Atlanta Falcons: $26.46 million
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: $23.94 million
- Baltimore Ravens: $22.04 million
- Philadelphia Eagles: $18.15 million
- Carolina Panthers: $12.95 million
- New York Giants: $5.14 million
- Cleveland Browns: $3.21 million
- Miami Dolphins: $3.18 million
Teams like the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings, however, find themselves in the red, with cap space deficits that could pose challenges in their offseason maneuvering.
As free agency unfolds, the strategic decisions made in the coming weeks will set the tone for the 2026 season. With cap space as a crucial factor, keep an eye on which teams will seize the opportunity to build a championship-caliber roster.