Which of the following is NOT a basic component of a salary cap number?

The concept of a salary cap is essential in professional sports, particularly in the NFL, as it defines the maximum amount of money that a team can spend on player salaries per season. The basic components that typically count against a team's salary cap include signing bonuses, roster bonuses, and workout bonuses.

Signing bonuses are upfront payments given to players when they sign contracts, which are often prorated over the life of the contract for cap purposes. Roster bonuses are awarded to players for being on the team's roster at certain points, while workout bonuses are given for participating in offseason workout programs.

Commission income, on the other hand, does not directly impact a player’s salary cap number. Commission income usually pertains to earnings derived from endorsements or other off-field ventures and is not accounted for in the context of the salary cap calculations. This distinction is crucial for understanding how the salary cap operates and helps to clarify why commission income is not a component that factors into a team’s salary cap number.