Seattle Seahawks’ Position on 2026 NFL Salary Cap Revealed
The NFL has confirmed the salary cap for the 2026 season, set at $301.2 million per team. This figure is at the lower end of the anticipated range, which was projected between $301.2 million and $305.7 million. This cap represents an increase of $22 million compared to the previous season.
Seattle Seahawks’ 2026 Salary Cap Status
According to Over the Cap, the Seattle Seahawks currently hold around $59.6 million in salary cap space. This ranks them sixth in the league for available cap space. Additionally, Seattle is ranked sixth with an effective cap space estimate of $56.4 million. This figure accounts for funds allocated to the rookie class for the current year.
Key Players and Contracts
A significant portion of the Seahawks’ salary cap may be directed towards securing long-term contracts for standout players. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, named the AP NFL Offensive Player of the Year, and Devon Witherspoon, a three-time Pro Bowl cornerback, are both eligible for contract extensions. As first-round draft picks in 2023, they are entering the final year of their rookie deals.
Pivotal Free Agents
The Seahawks will also need to address several pending free agents during the offseason. Notable names include:
- Kenneth Walker III – Super Bowl MVP running back
- Rashid Shaheed – Wide receiver/returner
- Boye Mafe – Edge rusher
- Coby Bryant – Safety
- Riq Woolen – Cornerback
- Josh Jobe – Cornerback
Upcoming Free Agency Timeline
The NFL’s free agent negotiating window is scheduled to commence on March 9, with the official start of free agency and the new league year following on March 11. This timeline will be critical for the Seahawks as they navigate their roster decisions and cap management for the upcoming season.
Conclusion
The Seattle Seahawks are in a strategic position as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season. With ample salary cap space and key players up for contract discussions, the team’s approach during free agency will be closely watched. The careful allocation of resources will be essential in shaping the future of the organization.