NFL Free Agency: The Game of Franchise Tag Begins

 

The two-week window for using the franchise tag opens.  Every team can use the franchise tag on one player they can’t afford to lose, but have been unable to work out a long-term deal out with yet. Here is a list of the tentative tag numbers by position:

POSITION	FRANCHISE TAG COST
Quarterback	$14.642
Defensive End	$10.984
Cornerback	$10.668
Wide Receiver	$10.357
Offensive Lineman	$9.660
Linebacker	$9.455
Defensive Tackle	$8.306
Running Back	$8.079
Safety	$6.798
Tight End	$5.962
Kicker/Punter	$2.926

Last year, 21 teams took advantage of the franchise tag, and we can expect to see a number high again with players like Joe Flacco, Jarius Byrd, Ryan Clady, and Victor Cruz set to hit the market.