Packers create cap space by restructuring Adrian Amos’ contract

Now only a week away from the start of the new league year, the Green Bay Packers continue to make moves to get under the salary cap.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Friday that the Packers have restructured Adrian Amos’ deal to create some more cap space. It’s one of many moves the team will need to make between now and next week’s deadline.

It’s only a small cap saving for 2021, however. According to Bill Huber of Sports Illustrated, the move creates around $750,000 in cap space for next season, meaning that the team still needs to free up just under $9 million.

This move comes after the Packers released inside linebacker Christian Kirksey and right tackle Rick Wagner, two free-agent signings from a year ago. Both moves helped the Packers create some cap room.

With the salary cap falling from last year, every team is put in a tough spot. Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst has to try to balance building a roster that is ready to compete for a Super Bowl while not sacrificing the future.

To sign free agents, Green Bay needs to clear cap room. But without releasing star players, the way to create cap room is to restructure or extend deals. Doing so pushes money into future years, which means the problem doesn’t go away, it’s just delayed.

The salary cap should increase in future years which will help that, but by restructuring too much and pushing lots of money into 2022 and beyond, the Packers could set themselves up for cap problems down the line.

That’s where Gutekunst needs to be cautious. He’s trying to balance pushing for a Super Bowl next season while also trying to ensure this team can remain competitive in future years without having to completely rebuild.

Restructuring Amos’ deal helps the Packers move one step closer to getting under the cap.