Understanding the salary cap, dead money and impact of 2021 decrease

Of all the areas of coverage around the NFL, there is not one more frequently misinformed, misunderstood and misrepresented than that of the salary cap. It is one of these subjects that qualify for the adage: A little knowledge is a dangerous thing. Yes, I realize most fans and media know all they want to know about the cap, which for many fans, is simply how far their team is under it. That, however, is a momentary snapshot into a complicated and ever-changing figure. Managing the NFL salary cap, as I did for 10 years with the Packers, is like stuffing an octopus in a box; there is always something trying to hang out. Every action has a reaction; every move with one player is watched by every other player (and agent); precedent is paramount.