Speculation surrounding the 2024 salary cap indicates that it might be in the area of $242 million. That's the number that salary-cap site OverTheCap.com has been working with, which, according to their estimations, puts the San Francisco 49ers about $12.38 over the projected cap.
The team could obviously use more wiggle room to sign wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk to a long-term deal. San Francisco may need to either restructure the contracts of some high-priced stars or make some difficult roster decisions to make that happen.
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According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, recent reports hint at a higher-than-expected salary cap.
"For now, multiple sources have indicated that the teams expect the 2024 cap to be in the neighborhood of $242 million and $243 million," Florio wrote. "Another source, in response to that number, had this reaction: 'More.'"
"More" would be advantageous for the 49ers, who aim to maintain their talented roster while preparing for future financial obligations, notably quarterback Brock Purdy's contract extension negotiations next offseason.
Providing an update, Florio added, "Another source, with a proven record of accuracy in these matters, says it will be closer to $250 million than to $243 million."
Maybe that signifies a figure around $247 million, which is closer to $250 million than $243 million. Perhaps it will be more. We may learn the final salary cap number during the NFL Scouting Combine next week, where negotiations will likely be finalized. Teams must comply with the salary cap by the start of the new league year on March 13.