NWSL GMs Sound Off on the ‘Rodman Rule,’ Charter Flights, and the League’s Path to Global Dominance

Jeff Kassouf covers women’s soccer for ESPN, focusing on the USWNT and NWSL. In 2009, he founded The Equalizer, a women’s soccer news outlet, and he previously won a Sports Emmy at NBC Sports and Olympics.

With the NWSL expanding rapidly in 2026 and attracting increased global attention, the league faces critical decisions that will define its trajectory. From controversial new roster rules to mounting pressure to match European spending power, the NWSL is navigating a pivotal era of growth and growing pains.

In ESPN’s third annual NWSL GM Survey, all 16 general managers were granted anonymity to share their candid thoughts on key league issues—ranging from the divisive “Rodman Rule” to salary cap concerns, charter flights, and the influence of the U.S. Women’s National Team on the league’s global appeal.

1. The High Impact Player Rule: A Necessary Move or a Short-Term Fix?

The NWSL introduced the High Impact Player (HIP) rule in December 2025 to retain star talent, most notably to keep Trinity Rodman from joining European clubs. While Rodman re-signed with the Washington Spirit for over $2 million annually, GMs express mixed feelings about the rule’s long-term impact.

“The HIP rule alone is not enough for the NWSL to compete internationally,” said one GM, who voted yes but still expressed reservations. Others noted that the rule primarily helps retain players rather than attract new ones, and criticized the rushed implementation.

Concerns about inflated contract values and unfair competitive advantages persist. One GM called the rule “one of the biggest existential threats” if it continues to distort the salary structure without meaningful global investment backing.

2. Locker Room Morale Under the HIP Rule

Fewer than half of NWSL teams are using the rule, leaving many clubs without direct experience. However, GMs agree that salary disparities have always been a sensitive topic. “It’s just now more serious money,” noted one executive.

Veteran players, who often serve as cultural anchors, may feel undervalued. “Life isn’t fair,” another GM said. “Players making $50,000 and others making $2 million—that’s just the nature of professional sports.”

3. USWNT Success and NWSL Appeal

With most players on the 2027 World Cup roster competing in the NWSL, the team’s performance could significantly influence the league’s global reputation. Some GMs believe success—or failure—on the world stage directly impacts recruitment and perception.

Others argue the NWSL has already established itself as a premier destination. “Additional success won’t move the needle much further,” said one dissenting voice. Regardless, there’s consensus that marketing and visibility remain crucial.

4. Will the U.S. Win the 2027 Women’s World Cup?

U.S. coach Emma Hayes earned widespread praise for revitalizing the program. While many GMs believe the team is “probably one more year away,” several still view the Americans as favorites.

“If you’re picking a team to win it, they’re the team to win,” said one GM. Three others predicted Brazil would take the title on home soil.

5. Transfer Fee Limits and Global Competitiveness

The NWSL’s $605,000 transfer cap per team is increasingly strained by rising global fees. With Naomi Girma becoming the first $1 million transfer in 2025, and the world record now exceeding $1.5 million, GMs warn the league risks being priced out.

“Transfer fees are exploding,” said one GM. “Our per-club threshold must rise with the salary cap.” Calls to roll over unused transfer funds and reallocate them to player compensation are gaining traction.

6. Roster Spending: How Much Are Teams Investing?

Several teams exceed the combined cap of $4.7 million ($3.7 million base + $1 million HIP) by leveraging allocation money. Five teams are currently spending below the cap, though most plan to max out by year-end.

GMs who provided specific figures emphasized that under-investment could jeopardize competitiveness. “Any team spending less than $4.7 million is investing less than it could,” said one source.

7. Charter Flights: Still a Luxury in the NWSL

Limited charter flights (six legs per year) are a sticking point as the league expands. Many GMs call for partnerships like MLS’s deal with Sun Country Airlines.

“Commercial travel adds entire nights of expenses,” said one GM. “And it makes a massive impact on the product.” Rising injury rates linked to travel fatigue further underscore the need for change.

8. Rule-Breaking: Still a Concern?

While fewer GMs believe rule-breaking is “widespread,” several acknowledge it persists. “Teams are always looking for loopholes,” said one executive. “Salary cap audits have become the norm.”

The 2024 Angel City sanctioning—including a $200,000 fine, executive suspensions, and point deductions—has reportedly curbed some infractions. Yet skepticism remains.

9. The Most-Broken Rule

Salary cap circumvention tops the list, with creative workarounds like inflated marketing deals and side jobs for players’ spouses. Tampering is also cited as a recurring issue.

“There are teams trying to solve problems that aren’t rectified quickly enough by the league,” said one GM. “Until that changes, loopholes will continue to emerge.”

10. One Rule Change GMs Would Make

Increasing the salary cap or reintroducing allocation money were popular suggestions. “Player salaries are asking for triple what they’re making,” said one GM.

Others criticized the constant tinkering: “We signed this CBA. Why are we changing every single year?”

11. Commission Priorities: Youth Development and On-Field Quality

Youth development tied as the top priority, with complaints about the league’s “miserable job” in the area. A new leadership role and PDR rule may help, but one GM called it “a drop in the bucket.”

Declining on-field quality was another concern. “We’ve gone to 16 teams, we’re going to 18 teams, and the quality’s taking a hit,” said one executive.

12. Schedule Debate: Spring-to-Fall vs. Fall-to-Spring

Despite internal debate, GMs largely support maintaining the current spring-to-fall schedule. Financial hurdles and attendance concerns weigh heavily against a shift.

However, some see eventual alignment with Europe as inevitable. “You’d have to wait and see how it affects MLS,” said four different GMs.

13. Interleague Cup: Yes, With Caution

A new cup featuring NWSL and USL Super League teams is planned for 2028. GMs generally approve, though many emphasize the need for expanded rosters and clear scheduling guidelines.

“Midweek games are already a problem,” warned one source. “This adds another layer.”

14. Is Liga Femenil Better Than the NWSL?

Club América’s Concacaf W Champions Cup win raised questions, but most GMs still rate the NWSL higher overall.

“The best Mexican teams would be fighting for playoff spots,” said one GM. “But they’re catching up—we need a bigger sample size.”

15. Dream Trade Candidate

Gotham FC received praise for having “a full squad of next-level players.” Kansas City and Utah also drew votes for roster balance and standout talent like Temwa Chawinga.

Only one GM refused to entertain the idea: “I wouldn’t trade my team.”

16. Coaching Diversity: Duty or Choice?

Many GMs agree the NWSL—and U.S. Soccer—have a duty to develop more American and female coaches.

“There are more qualified men flooding into women’s soccer,” said one source. “We’re falling woefully behind.”

17. Rapid Fire

A. Next Great NWSL Player

Jordyn Bugg, Claire Hutton, and Croix Bethune dominated the conversation.

B. Next Great Coach

Juan Carlos Amoros, Bev Yanez, and Filipa Patao were top picks.

C. Best Captain (Non-Team Affiliated)

Emily Sonnett earned consistent praise, along with Mina Tanaka and Kate Del Fava.

D. Shield or Championship?

Almost universally: Championship.

E. Five Years From Now, the NWSL Will Be…

GMs envision a globally dominant force—but one that balances ambition with infrastructure.

F. Best Player in the World Right Now?

Three-time Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí led the pack, despite injury setbacks.

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