On September 12, 2026, the Detroit Lions announced they created $35.68 million in salary cap space by restructuring contracts for receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and left tackle Penei Sewell. Specifically, they converted $26 million of St. Brown’s salary into a signing bonus, reducing his cap number by $20.8 million this year, while increasing his future cap charges to $5.2 million annually. Similarly, they converted $18.6 million of Sewell’s salary into a signing bonus, lowering his cap number by $14.88 million this year and increasing future charges by $3.72 million per year.
These moves give the Lions over $38 million in salary cap space, ranking second in the NFL. This financial flexibility could allow for enhancements to their roster, such as pursuing cornerback Joey Porter Jr. from the Pittsburgh Steelers, who is seeking a new contract. Additionally, the restructures may pave the way for contract extensions for players like Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch, as Lions GM Brad Holmes expressed a desire to retain both players long-term.
The Lions have options to either use this cap space to address immediate roster needs or roll it over into the 2027 offseason to assist with potential extensions or free agency activities.
