Packers Solve Salary Cap Crunch, Plan Long-Term

0:00The latest scores, headlines, and storylines, right here on NFL News Today. Subscribe and stay game-ready. The Green Bay Packers fixed their salary cap problem this week by converting most of Xavier McKinney's salary and roster bonus. They were over the cap by $5.1 million, heading into the New League year on March 11th. This move dropped its 2026 cap hit from $19.2 million to $9.9 million, getting them compliant, with about $4.2 million in space. This sets up McKinney for a likely contract extension in 2027. His cap charge jumps to $24.8 million that year, so the Packers can rework it into a signing bonus spread over five years. For relief, it's a smart play to escape a short-term crunch while planning long-term with a key safety they want to keep. Other players like Elton Jenkins, Jordan Love, and Rashon Gary have big upfront cash payments this season, topping out at $18.5 million for Jenkins.

1:04But the Packers only touched McKinney's deal, leaving plenty of room to convert more if needed. That choice stands out as a signal on their priorities. Now cap compliant, the team avoids rushed moves, but can't go on a spending spree yet. They have flexibility to wait on the trade market for guys like Jenkins or Gary, whose contracts could free up major space without immediate deadlines. Watch those two as the real test this off season. If the Packers want to shop big in free agency or trades, shedding those deals will be key. For now, this by-time strategy keeps options open. We'd like to thank our sponsor for making this episode possible. On Chase Piece, I put my head in it, S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com.