Report: NFL sets 2025 salary cap at $279.5M; how it impacts the Saints

By Ross Jackson

INDIANAPOLIS – With free agency now less than two weeks away, the NFL has finalized its 2025 salary cap number. The rising value uniquely helps the New Orleans Saints, who are the furthest over the limit heading into the new league year.

Per NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero, the NFL has set the cap limit to $279.5 million, up about $9 million from early expectations. This lands right in the middle of the range that the league shared with teams last week of $277.5 million to $281.5 million.

The NFL and NFLPA have agreed to a 2025 salary cap of $279.2 million per club, per sources. Another record high. pic.twitter.com/9vm0TvzklU

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 27, 2025

The additional funds will help the Saints as the team positioned in the most challenging financial situation in the league. This moves New Orleans from being a league-leading $54-56 million over the cap to a (still league-leading) $47 million. That amount may seem insignificant in the grand scheme; however, it means fewer cuts or possible veteran contract restructures for the Saints this offseason. So, the ripple effect is greater than the initial savings amount.

With the Saints expected to hang on to starting quarterback Derek Carr, a simple restructure would save the team $31 million against the cap, leaving them with just $16 million left to clear. With young restructured options like offensive linemen Cesar Ruiz and Erik McCoy, along with defensive end Carl Granderson, the team will have no issue making major headway before starting to explore more creative options.

Though, New Orleans will likely explore those options with Carr’s deal before settling on a full restructure.

Expect the Saints to begin their annual salary cap trimming in the coming days. They will need to be not only compliant but also under the limit by March 12, when the 2025 league year begins and free agency officially opens following the two-day negotiating period. At that time, contracts can officially be agreed upon and signed.