The NFL Salary Cap Turns 25: How it Began and Where It Is Now

The NFL Salary Cap reshaped the landscape of professional football by enforcing a level playing field that revolutionized team-building strategies. No longer could franchises simply stockpile talent; they had to adapt quickly or risk falling behind. For the San Francisco 49ers—a team that had built its success on deep, veteran-filled rosters—the cap signaled a dramatic shift. Carmen Policy, then president and CEO of the 49ers, reimagined the team’s approach, transforming challenges into triumphs and earning a reputation as pioneers in operating under the new financial constraints.
To explore the full history and impact of these landmark changes, read the original article here.