Why do teams prefer injury settlements over putting a player on IR?

Teams often prefer injury settlements as opposed to placing a player on injured reserve (IR) because settling injuries can save them money in various ways. When a player is placed on IR, the team usually has to pay the player's full salary for the duration of their time on IR, especially if the injury is serious. On the other hand, an injury settlement typically allows for the team to negotiate a lower payout based on the player's expected recovery time and the remaining contract duration. This negotiation can result in paying much less than the full salary, providing significant financial relief to the team.

Additionally, injury settlements can allow teams to manage their salary cap better, as they can adjust their financial obligations without the lengthy commitments that accompany IR designations. By settling injury claims, teams can recoup some of their budget for other roster needs, making this an attractive option financially.