Detroit Lions Create Significant Salary Cap Space by Restructuring Jared Goff’s Contract – Boosting Opportunities for Free Agent Signings and Roster Expansion

Detroit, Michigan — Detroit Lions have taken an important step in addressing their salary cap situation as Jared Goff, the team’s key quarterback, agreed to restructure his contract with the team. This strategic move is aimed at creating more salary cap flexibility for the 2026 season, as the Lions prepare to strengthen their roster for a highly ambitious campaign.

Lions are facing challenges regarding the salary cap with the NFL free agency market approaching. Therefore, creating salary cap space has become the top priority for GM Brad Holmes. Rather than cutting key players, the Lions opted to restructure Goff's contract, who is regarded as the team’s franchise QB.

Contract Restructure

Under the new agreement, Jared Goff has agreed to convert a large portion of his base salary — up to $55 million — into a signing bonus. This helps the Lions immediately reduce the cap hit while still maintaining Goff’s long-term contract.

Specifically, $55 million of the total $69.6 million base salary was converted into a signing bonus. This adjustment reduces Goff’s base salary for 2026, freeing up a significant amount of cap space for the team.

Salary Cap Savings and Creating New Space

Before the restructure, Goff’s cap hit for 2026 was $35 million. After the restructure, his cap hit has been reduced to approximately $22 million, allowing the Lions to free up about $13 million in cap space.

This adjustment has created a significant financial cushion, allowing the team to sign free agents or extend contracts with other key players like Montgomery and Decker. This is an important step to ensure that the team has enough resources to maintain a strong roster moving forward.

Financial Impact on Detroit Lions

Restructuring Goff’s contract not only helps free up cap space but also brings the Lions back under the salary cap limit. This allows them to continue bolstering the roster and maintaining strength in key positions without sacrificing critical talent.

In addition to improving salary cap space, this move sends a powerful message from Goff about his commitment to the Lions. He is willing to adjust his contract to help the team build a competitive roster, showing trust in the organization and a commitment to the team’s long-term goals.

Creating Opportunities for New Signings

With the new salary cap space created, Lions can now pursue high-quality free agents and strengthen their roster before the 2026 season begins. Goff’s contract restructure not only helps the Lions retain their franchise QB but also opens up opportunities for important signings.

Detroit Lions are now preparing for a challenging and opportunity-filled season. The restructuring of Jared Goff's contract is a strategic move that brings the team closer to reclaiming glory, reinforcing their position in the league, and preparing for a long-term future.