Lions Free Up Over $35 Million in Salary Cap Space Ahead of 2026 Season

Just before their first game of the 2026 regular season, the Detroit Lions have successfully cleared over $35 million in salary cap space.

The team restructured contracts for receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and tackle Penei Sewell. St. Brown's contract saw $26 million of his base salary converted into a signing bonus, resulting in $20.8 million in cap space. Similarly, Sewell's contract was adjusted, converting $18.6 million into a signing bonus, which opened up an additional $14.8 million.

This restructuring is a common practice in the NFL, allowing teams to spread signing bonuses over five years, thus reducing the immediate cap impact. With this move, the Lions now have a total of $35.8 million in cap space for the 2026 season, positioning them as potential contenders for players like Maxx Crosby, who has a $30 million salary in 2026.