In 2014, the new TV deals kick in. As a result, the NFL’s broadcast-related revenues will jump. It has caused many league observers to assume the salary cap also will jump.
Patriots owner Robert Kraft doesn’t think that will be the case.
“I don’t really see that happening,” Kraft said Thursday during an event at Gillette Stadium, according to Mike Rodak of ESPNBoston.com. “I don’t think what happened in 2006 will happen in the future here, because if you understand the labor agreement and the long-term part of this, there will be a smooth growth.”
Kraft added with a smile, “Anyone who assumes huge jumps, I hope they’re in our division.”
Players may not be all that thrilled with the concept of “smooth growth.” The new CBA ties the players’ share to nearly half of all revenue, with the players’ cut growing as the total pie continues to expand. Apparently, even with the new national TV deals, the total growth won’t be particularly dramatic.