2024 NFL Free Agency: How Teams with Little Salary Cap Space Can Make Moves
As the 2024 NFL free agency period approaches, some teams find themselves in a more favorable position than others when it comes to salary cap space. While some teams have ample funds to spend on upgrading their rosters, others are facing financial constraints that limit their ability to make significant moves. However, there are still ways for these teams to navigate the challenges and improve their chances of success in the upcoming season.
The Cleveland Browns, with a projected cap space of $6.8 million, are one of the teams looking to maximize their investment in quarterback Deshaun Watson. To do so, they may need to part ways with some familiar faces. By renegotiating deals, moving money around, or even cutting or trading players, the Browns can free up additional salary-cap space to bolster Watson’s supporting cast.
The Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, have a projected cap space of $3.5 million. While technically in the green, they will need to make tough decisions regarding their key free agents, including star defender Chris Jones, if they want to defend their crown successfully. The Chiefs may have to prioritize certain positions and let go of valuable players to create more room under the salary cap.
The San Francisco 49ers, the reigning NFC champions, find themselves projected over the cap by $285,000. While this may seem like a small amount, it could hinder their ability to make significant roster changes in their quest to return to the Super Bowl. The 49ers will need to take more drastic measures to free up additional cap space and make the necessary moves to strengthen their team.
The Baltimore Ravens, projected over the cap by $9.6 million, have already taken steps to retain key free agent Justin Madubuike by tagging him. However, they still need to find more money to build around quarterback Lamar Jackson after their deep playoff run in 2023. The Ravens will need to explore various strategies, such as renegotiating contracts or making difficult decisions regarding player personnel, to create the financial flexibility they need.
The Dallas Cowboys, projected over the cap by $10.6 million, have expressed their commitment to being “all-in” for the 2024 season. However, this declaration comes with financial challenges. The Cowboys will need to allocate most of their funds to in-house extensions, leaving little room for external additions. Team owner Jerry Jones and his management will need to be creative and strategic in navigating the salary cap constraints to build a competitive roster.
The Denver Broncos, projected over the cap by $16.4 million, have already made significant moves by cutting ties with quarterback Russell Wilson. However, their work is far from done. Head coach Sean Payton will need to think outside the box and explore unconventional methods to pursue notable additions outside of the draft. The Broncos will need to be resourceful and find ways to create cap space while still addressing their roster needs.
The New Orleans Saints, perennially in cap-manipulation mode, are projected over the cap by $17.1 million. Despite rumors of a potential rebuild, the Saints have been reluctant to fully commit to such a strategy. Instead, they have been reworking deals for players like Derek Carr and Cameron Jordan to create more financial flexibility. The Saints will continue their cap gymnastics and explore every avenue to remain competitive in the upcoming season.
The Miami Dolphins, projected over the cap by $18.8 million, have already started cutting costs by parting ways with veterans Xavien Howard and Emmanuel Ogbah. With big-money extensions on the horizon for key positions, the Dolphins will need to shift money around to accommodate these deals. By making tough decisions and potentially restructuring contracts, they can create the necessary cap space to make significant moves in free agency.
The Los Angeles Chargers, projected over the cap by $19.2 million, have a new coach in Jim Harbaugh who is eager to win sooner rather than later. However, the team faces the challenge of several expensive contracts on their books. To create room for new additions, the Chargers may need to part ways with some big-name players. It will be a balancing act for Harbaugh and his staff as they navigate the salary cap constraints while aiming for immediate success.
The Buffalo Bills, built to win now, find themselves in a tough spot with a projected over-the-cap figure of $9 million. To make legitimate upgrades to their roster, the Bills will need to make some difficult decisions. Recently, the team made several moves to help balance the books, indicating their commitment to creating financial flexibility. The Bills will need to continue making shrewd moves and exploring all options to strengthen their team within the constraints of the salary cap.
In conclusion, while some NFL teams have more salary cap space than others, those facing financial limitations can still find ways to improve their rosters. By renegotiating contracts, making tough personnel decisions, and exploring creative