In September, NFL owners proposed a maximum player salary in the recent CBA, which was quickly rejected by the NFLPA. However, discussions around a similar idea have continued.

Tom Pelissero of NFL Network mentioned on the Rich Eisen Show that some owners are discussing a quarterback-specific cap. This would limit the portion of the team’s salary cap that a franchise quarterback could occupy, a significant development if implemented. However, Pelissero noted that no agreement on this matter is imminent.

The salary cap issues are collectively bargained, requiring approval from the player’s association for any formal arrangement. One consideration is an unofficial agreement among owners not to exceed a certain point on quarterback deals, whether in terms of a percentage of the salary cap or total dollars, similar to NBA supermax contracts.

The quarterback market has seen significant growth, with several passers surpassing $50MM per year on their contracts last offseason. Notable names like Jalen Hurts, Lamar Jackson, Justin Herbert, Joe Burrow, Jared Goff, and Trevor Lawrence have set new benchmarks. As the salary cap continues to rise, players like Dak Prescott, Tua Tagovailoa, and Jordan Love are poised to join the $50MM club or even hit $60MM.

Some owners are hesitant due to existing quarterback mega-contracts on teams. Future contracts, like potential extensions for Brock Purdy in 2025 and C.J. Stroud beyond that, are expected to further increase in value. With revenue sources like gambling and media rights boosting the salary cap, quarterback contracts may continue to escalate in the coming years.

The 2011 CBA introduced the rookie wage scale, ending contract disputes by setting salaries based on draft position. A cap on quarterback earnings would similarly impact the financial landscape of the NFL. Without owner consensus, an informal agreement or official cap with the NFLPA is unlikely in the near future.