Why is the NWSL considering a rule change for Trinity Rodman?

The NWSL is considering a rule change to allow higher salaries to retain star players like Trinity Rodman, who is a free agent with international offers.

What is the NWSL salary cap rule change about?

The NWSL is discussing a new mechanism to permit teams to pay star players significant salaries beyond the current salary cap.

Can NWSL teams pay players over the salary cap?

A proposed new mechanism could allow NWSL teams to allocate specific funds beyond the salary cap for star players.

Home / Sports / NWSL Eyes Massive Rule Change to Keep Star Players

NWSL Eyes Massive Rule Change to Keep Star Players

11 Dec, 2025

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Summary

NWSL is discussing a new rule to allow higher salaries for star players.
The proposed mechanism would add funds beyond the salary cap for top talent.
The rule aims to retain players like Trinity Rodman from international offers.

NWSL Eyes Massive Rule Change to Keep Star Players

The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) is exploring a potentially transformative rule change to retain its most valuable players. Discussions are underway among team owners and the commissioner to introduce a new roster mechanism. This mechanism would provide additional funds beyond the existing salary cap, specifically designated for paying star players who meet certain criteria.

The primary catalyst for this consideration appears to be the free agency status of U.S. international Trinity Rodman, whose contract is set to expire in December. The league hopes this new financial flexibility will enable her team, the Washington Spirit, to offer a salary likely exceeding $1 million, thereby fending off lucrative offers from abroad. This situation highlights a broader challenge for the NWSL in financially competing for its top talent.