Welcome to our podcast, where today we dive into how NFL front offices are navigating the complexities of dead money.

In recent years, teams like the Denver Broncos and Tampa Bay Buccaneers have shown that significant dead money isn’t the death knell many believe it to be. Greg Penner, owner of the Broncos, emphasized their approach: “Our job is to put the best football team on the field each season, no matter what the constraints are.” After cutting quarterback Russell Wilson, the Broncos faced an $85 million dead money charge, but they chose to see it as an opportunity rather than a setback.

Interestingly, four of the five teams with the highest dead money totals made the playoffs recently. The Eagles, led by general manager Howie Roseman, have mastered this strategy, utilizing big cash spending upfront and smart contract management. Roseman himself likened it to buying a house: “If the value of the cap is not $100 but now it’s $150, why wouldn’t I want to take it in those times?”

As the San Francisco 49ers face a league-high in dead money, their general manager John Lynch stressed the need for a reset, stating, “We have a plan...and we’re excited about the opportunity.”

It’s clear: in the NFL, the key to success often lies not just in managing finances but in seizing opportunities for growth amid challenges.
Link to Article