USWNT transfer grades: Rodman, Heaps, Macario and more moves

"U.S. women's national team forward Catarina Macario has joined the San Diego Wave, sources confirmed to ESPN, on a deal through 2030 that is worth around $8 million and believed to be the largest cumulative contract in women's soccer. The Wave will utilize the NWSL's new rule to pay Macario."

"The High Impact Player rule has been dubbed the "Rodman rule" because it was prompted in December to ensure that Trinity Rodman stayed with the Washington Spirit. Rodman is being paid over $2 million annually all-in, sources confirmed, making her the highest paid player globally on an annual basis."

"The $300,000 is worth paying to get Macario a couple months early, and the $8 million compensation package is spread out enough that, with the new HIP rule, San Diego can manage the financial commitment while acquiring a No. 9 to consistently carry the scoring load."

The NWSL's transfer window closed with significant moves, highlighted by Catarina Macario's signing with San Diego Wave on a record $8 million cumulative contract through 2030. The deal utilizes the league's new High Impact Player rule, dubbed the "Rodman Rule," which was created to retain Trinity Rodman with Washington Spirit at over $2 million annually. Macario's transfer from Chelsea involved a $300,000 transfer fee, allowing the Wave to acquire a striker needed to improve their scoring consistency. These signings represent major offseason activity for the NWSL, particularly involving U.S. women's national team players seeking new opportunities or contract restructuring.

Read at ESPN.com