The NFL franchise tag window is set to close today, and with it, the fate of several players and teams hangs in the balance. The choice is stark: tag or let them go free.
For those unfamiliar with the franchise tag, it's a mechanism in the NFL that allows teams to retain the rights of certain players by placing a tender on them, preventing them from becoming free agents. But here's where it gets controversial...
The franchise tag window opened two weeks ago, but teams often wait until the final day to make their decisions. This delay provides more opportunities for long-term deals and allows teams to better assess their options. In the NFL, much like life, deadlines spur action, and today is a crucial deadline day.
So far, two clubs have used the franchise tag: the Atlanta Falcons tagged tight end Kyle Pitts for $15.045 million, and the Dallas Cowboys tagged receiver George Pickens for $27.298 million. Both tags were the non-exclusive franchise tag variety.
Several other tags could be handed out today. The Jets have said they'd tag Breece Hall if a deal can't be reached, and Cincinnati has not ruled out tagging Trey Hendrickson (possibly to trade him).
The most intriguing options, however, sit in Indianapolis. General manager Chris Ballard has two players to consider: QB Daniel Jones and WR Alec Pierce. Jones could ink a contract as the franchise tender window closes, allowing Indy to also retain Pierce's rights. Could they sign both? Could both head to the market and possibly new homes?
Any player not tagged today has a free sprint toward free agency, but clubs can still hand out extensions to their own players in the meantime. With the trade market already heating up, it's a full-on gallop to the new league year on March 11, when free agency officially kicks off. So, giddy up!
