Chiefs pull massive cap lever with Mahomes money move
The Kansas City Chiefs have adjusted Patrick Mahomes’ contract in a move designed to create breathing room under the NFL salary cap.
According to salary cap analyst Jason Fitzgerald of OverTheCap, the restructuring reduces Mahomes’ 2026 cap hit from $78.2 million to $34.65 million. The shift opens up $43.56 million in cap space for Kansas City as the organization prepares for the upcoming league year.
The change was made by converting $54.45 million of Mahomes’ scheduled salary into a signing bonus. That accounting decision lowers the immediate cap charge while distributing the financial impact across future seasons.
Kansas City now has added flexibility to pursue free agents, negotiate extensions with current players, or address other roster priorities as it continues to build around its franchise quarterback.
Read also: Thierry Henry’s priceless reaction to Arsenal’s late collapse
How the restructure works
In the NFL, signing bonuses count against the salary cap but are prorated evenly over the length of a contract, for up to five years. This mechanism allows teams to reduce a player’s cap number in the present season while pushing portions of the cap charge into future years.
In Mahomes’ case, he receives the converted money upfront as a signing bonus. The Chiefs, however, spread the cap accounting over multiple seasons. The total cash paid to the player does not change, only the timing of how it counts against the cap.
This strategy is commonly used by contenders looking to maintain competitive rosters while navigating tight financial limits.
Why this move matters for Kansas City
While restructures can provide immediate relief, they also increase future cap commitments. Repeatedly moving money forward can create heavier financial obligations down the line if not managed carefully.
Read also: Verstappen and Vettel together for potential 24h-Le Mans start
For the Chiefs, the decision signals confidence in their long term partnership with Mahomes and a willingness to remain aggressive in roster construction. With additional cap space now available, Kansas City is positioned to be active as the market develops.
Mahomes does not lose income under the revised structure. Instead, the adjustment reflects a strategic cap maneuver that gives the Chiefs short term flexibility while keeping their core intact.
Sources: OverTheCap
Read also: Russia’s return under national flag sparks Paralympic protest
Read also: Half a billion chase world cup 2026 dream, according to FIFA
