MLS board to hear proposal for major roster, salary cap overhaul

Published Jul 28, 05:46 PM UTC

MLS owners are expected to hear a presentation this week regarding significant changes to the league's roster rules and salary cap structure, according to sources briefed on the situation. The MLS board of governors will meet Wednesday in Charlotte ahead of the MLS All-Star Game. The sporting and competition committee is expected to present a preliminary proposal that would revamp the roster-building structure, centered around a more open salary cap system that removes many restrictions on team spending while maintaining a carveout for designated players. The proposal may also include rules to incentivize signing young players. These changes are seen as the final critical step in the league's 'MLS 3.0' evolution, which already includes a calendar switch to match European leagues. Any changes will likely be tied to a new collective bargaining agreement with the MLS Players Association, as the current CBA expires in January 2028.