February 20th officially kicked off the NFL franchise tag with general managers scrambling to lock up some of their top-tier talent to a one-year deal. Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins became the first player to be designated with the tag. Reports suggest Kansas City Chiefs cornerback L’Jarius Sneed and Tampa Bay Buccaneers Antoine Winfield Jr. could follow shortly.
The terms and details of the franchise tag can be complicated for many fans so we attempted to breakdown the important aspects below.
What is the NFL Franchise Tag?
The NFL franchise tag allows the team to secure one player (only one player) every offseason to a one-year deal at a fixed salary. Teams can only retain a player that is set to become a free agent. The tag is usually used to retain a top player on a short term deal preventing him from moving to another team.
What are the Dates Teams can Franchise Tag a Player?
Tag season officially begun on February 20th with March 5th the last day teams can lock in a player.
What is the Difference Between an Exclusive and Non-Exclusive Tag?
A non-exclusive tag offers players a little more flexibility and is more commonly used by NFL teams. Players can sign offer sheets with other teams. If signed, the team that tagged the player has the opportunity to match the offers, or receive compensation if the player move on. The compensation is currently two first-round picks.
The Exclusive tag is exactly what it sounds like. Player are not permitted to sign offer sheets and seek out alternative offers.
What is a Player’s Salary Under Franchise Tag?
The NFL assigns a value to players based on position which applies to the whole league. The breakdown is currently as follows:
Non-exclusive Tag Contracts:
Quarterback: $38,301,000
Linebacker: $24,007,000
Defensive Tackle: $22,102,000
Wide Receiver: $$21,816,000
Defensive Lineman: $21,324,000
Offensive Lineman: $20,985,000
Cornerback: $19,802,000
Safety: $17,123,000
Tight End: $12,693,000
Running Back: $11,951,000
Kickers/Punters: $5,984,000
Is Being Tagged Negative for NFL Players?
As seen above, being tagged usually provides a pretty good return for players. The earning are on the higher side compared to other players in the same position. Some players, however, do find it frustrating that they are not able to secure long-term lucrative deals that provide more security. One benefit is if a player is settled with the team, he has time to negotiate a bigger deal over the coming year.
