A massive salary cap increase has given the Cleveland Browns a lifeline. The team was projected to be deep in the red. Now, GM Andrew Berry has new flexibility to reshape the roster for the 2026 season.

Last year, the NFL’s salary cap was set at $279.2 million. But for the 2026 season, the cap reportedly moved more than $30 million to a range of $301.2 million and $305.7 million. 

For the Cleveland Browns, this projection delivers relief from the current challenging cap situation. Right now, there are 55 players on their roster, and nine players are entering void years on their contracts. Even with these players, a couple of weeks ago, the Browns were projected to be about $15,337,687 over the cap for the new season. 

However, with the additional $30 million increase in the salary cap, the Browns can pursue upgrades through free agency without having to make deep cuts. And knowing the new head coach, Todd Monken, the general manager, Andrew Berry, can weigh in on bringing some free agent quarterbacks into the team. 

But the Browns also have retained players with a high salary, like Deshaun Watson. So, even if they’ll get more breathing room with the increased salary cap, they’d still have to find ways to add more space. 

Other Ways for the Cleveland Browns to Add Cap Space

Over the Cap projected the Browns with $31 million to end the 2025 season, while the NFLPA put the number at over $20 million. Nevertheless, as the new season begins, the team will adjust its roster to fill the gap. 

Roughly $50 million can be saved by restructuring Denzel Ward and Deshaun Watson on the roster. And releasing Joel Bitonio and David Njoku from their void years can further add over $0 million to the cap. 

The rising cap eases Cleveland’s financial strain and expands its options for the upcoming season.

You can read more at the Cleveland Browns Community!

Written by

Krushna Pattnaik

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar