Chiefs map cap strategy as NFL sets 2026 limit at $302.1M

NFL set the 2026 salary cap at $302.1 million per club, a $22 million rise from 2025, with the Chiefs about $8.6 million over the cap as the March 11 deadline approaches. A potential release of right tackle Jawaan Taylor could save $19.1 million, and restructuring Chris Jones’ contract could add roughly $22.5 million in cap space. The finalized franchise/transition tag numbers and the $14.5 million fifth-year option for Felix Anudike-Uzomah are also in play, with KC likely declining that option after his 2025 hamstring injury.