NFL Franchise Tag Deadline: Rumors, Tracker, and Latest Updates on Players
The clock is ticking for NFL teams as the franchise tag deadline approaches. With the start of free agency just a week away, organizations must decide by 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday whether to use the franchise tag to protect their negotiating rights with top players. This decision comes with both advantages and challenges, as the tag can provide a stopgap solution but also adds complexity to salary cap management.
Stay tuned for live updates from USA TODAY Sports as we track the latest franchise tag news throughout the day.
Will the New York Jets Tag Breece Hall?
The Jets find themselves in a crucial position, as they have yet to secure a deal with free agent Breece Hall. General Manager Darren Mougey indicated last week at the NFL scouting combine that the team would use either the franchise or transition tag if no agreement was reached. Mougey emphasized their commitment to keeping Hall, stating, 'We'll find a way to keep Breece here if we can't get a deal done. The tags are an option.'
While initial reports suggested the transition tag was favored, recent updates suggest the franchise tag is now the more likely choice for the Jets. This option comes with a significant cost of $14.3 million for one year, unless a multiyear contract can be negotiated.
Players Already Tagged:
Dallas Cowboys WR George Pickens: The Cowboys officially placed the non-exclusive tag on Pickens last Friday. Despite his ranking as the No. 1 player in USA TODAY Sports' top 100, Pickens won't enter the open market. He received a tender of $27.298 million, offering a relative one-year bargain in a booming market for receivers.
Atlanta Falcons TE Kyle Pitts Sr.: The Falcons prioritized retaining Pitts, who had a tumultuous start to his career in Atlanta. General Manager Ian Cunningham stated, 'We're not in the business of letting go of really good players.' Pitts, coming off a career-high season, is expected to play a vital role in the team's offensive strategy.
Understanding the Franchise Tag:
The franchise tag is a powerful tool for teams to protect their top players. There are three types of franchise tags:
Non-Exclusive Franchise Tag: The most common, it deters other teams but allows the player to negotiate with others. The issuing team can match any offer sheet and receives two first-round picks if the player departs.
Exclusive Franchise Tag: Provides absolute protection, preventing the player from negotiating with competitors. However, it comes at a higher cost, making it less common.
Transition Tag: Similar to the non-exclusive tag, it allows negotiation but doesn't yield draft compensation if the team refuses to match the offer.
Deadline and Implications:
NFL teams have until 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday to decide on the franchise or transition tag. This decision impacts the player's future, as they can sign a one-year tender or negotiate a long-term contract. Multiyear deals must be finalized by July 15, or the player plays the season on a one-year contract.
Stay tuned for more updates as the franchise tag deadline unfolds, and the NFL's free agency period begins.
