Understanding the Franchise Tag in the NFL
The NFL’s free agency period is a crucial time for teams to retain or attract top talent, but before the official league year begins on March 12, teams have an opportunity to secure a key player with the franchise tag. The franchise tag window, which opens now and closes on March 4 at 4 p.m. ET, allows teams to designate a single player per year with a special one-year contract. This tag comes in three different versions: the exclusive tag, the non-exclusive tag, and the transition tag. Each has its own unique benefits and consequences, and understanding them can provide valuable insight into the league’s player retention strategies.
The Exclusive Tag: A One-Team Deal
The exclusive tag is the most restrictive of the three options. When a player is tagged exclusively, he is locked into his current team and cannot negotiate with other teams. The value of the tag is determined by the average salary of the top five highest-paid players at that position for the current year. This tag is often used for players who are considered irreplaceable and whose departure would significantly impact the team’s performance. While it provides financial security, it also limits the player’s ability to explore the free market, making it a double-edged sword.
The Non-Exclusive Tag: Negotiation Allowed
The non-exclusive tag is the most commonly used version. It allows the tagged player to negotiate with other teams, but any offer must be matched with the original team having the right of first refusal. The value of the non-exclusive tag is based on the average salary of the top five highest-paid players at that position over the past five years. This tag is a balance between retaining a player and giving them the opportunity to explore other options. If another team offers a better deal, the original team can either match it or receive two first-round draft picks as compensation.
The Transition Tag: A Matching Offer Game
The transition tag is a more flexible option. It also allows the tagged player to negotiate with other teams, but the catch is that the current team can match any offer the player receives. The value of the transition tag is based on the average salary of the top 10 highest-paid players at that position. This tag is less financially lucrative than the franchise tag but still provides a significant raise. It is often used as a stopgap measure to keep a player while working on a long-term contract.
The Timeline and Contract Extensions
Once a player is franchise-tagged, they and their team have a window to work out a long-term extension. For players tagged exclusively or non-exclusively, this window extends until July 15. For those tagged with the transition tag, the deadline is July 21. If a deal is not reached by these dates, the player must sign the one-year tender by November 11 to remain with the team. The franchise tag is thus a strategic tool for teams to keep their best players while they continue to negotiate a more permanent contract.
Franchise Tag Candidates for 2023
Several players are on the radar for potential franchise tags in 2023. One of the biggest names is Tee Higgins, the wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals. Higgins was franchise-tagged last season and would receive a 120 percent raise if the Bengals use the tag on him again. This significant pay bump reflects his value and importance to the team, making him a prime candidate for retention.
Other notable candidates include:
- Arizona Cardinals TE Trey McBride: As a tight end with growing influence, McBride could be a valuable asset for the Cardinals.
- Baltimore Ravens OL Ronnie Stanley: Stanley’s reliability and skill on the offensive line make him a key figure for the Ravens.
- Dallas Cowboys DL Osa Odighizuwa: A defensive lineman with potential, Odighizuwa could be critical for the Cowboys’ defensive strategy.
- Detroit Lions DB Carlton Davis III: Davis is a rising star in the secondary, and the Lions might want to secure his services.
- Kansas City Chiefs OL Trey Smith: Smith’s performance and potential make him a valuable player for the Chiefs.
- Minnesota Vikings QB Sam Darnold: Despite his mixed record, Darnold could be a strategic choice for the Vikings as they look to stabilize their quarterback position.
- Philadelphia Eagles LB Zack Baun and DL Josh Sweat: Both players have shown promise and could be important for the Eagles’ defensive depth.
The Impact of the Franchise Tag on Teams and Players
The franchise tag is a significant tool that can shape a team’s roster and financial landscape. For players, it offers immediate financial security but can also restrict their career growth and mobility. Teams, on the other hand, use it to ensure they retain their top talent without the risk of losing them to free agency. The tag can be a temporary solution, allowing teams to continue negotiations for a long-term contract while keeping the player under contract for the upcoming season. As the deadline approaches, fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to see which players are tagged and how this impacts the free agency market and team dynamics.
