The NFL has set the 2026 salary cap at $301.2 million per team, marking a $22 million jump from last year's cap. While it's on the lower end of the projected range, it's still a significant boost that teams will need to strategize around.
For the Seattle Seahawks, this means they currently enjoy around $59.6 million in salary cap space, ranking them sixth in the league. When considering effective cap space, which accounts for rookie contracts, they still hold a strong position with $56.4 million.
Seattle's front office will likely focus on locking in long-term deals for key players like Jaxon Smith-Njigba, the AP NFL Offensive Player of the Year, and three-time Pro Bowl cornerback Devon Witherspoon. Both were first-round picks in 2023 and are now eligible for extensions as they approach the final year of their rookie contracts.
Additionally, the Seahawks have several pending free agents to consider. This list includes Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III, versatile wide receiver and returner Rashid Shaheed, edge rusher Boye Mafe, safety Coby Bryant, and cornerbacks Riq Woolen and Josh Jobe.
With the NFL's free agent negotiating window opening on March 9 and the official start of free agency on March 11, the Seahawks have some crucial decisions ahead. They'll need to balance retaining their standout performers with the potential to bring in fresh talent, all while navigating the new salary cap landscape. Keep an eye on Seattle as they maneuver through this pivotal offseason.