NFL Teams Prepare for Franchise and Transition Tag Window
The window for NFL teams to assign the franchise and transition tags is set to open on February 20 and will close at 4 p.m. ET on March 5. This annual opportunity allows teams to designate one player per offseason, either with the franchise tag or the transition tag.
The franchise tag is a powerful tool that restricts a player’s rights in free agency by offering them a one-year contract. The cost of the tender is determined by either 120% of the player’s cap number from the previous season or the average of the top five salaries at their position, whichever is greater. While the player can sign the tag at any time, they have until July 15 to negotiate a multi-year extension.
On the other hand, the transition tag provides a player with the opportunity to test free agency while granting their current team the right to match any offer received. This tag is presented as a one-year deal worth the average of the top 10 salaries at the player’s position.
It’s important to note that certain high-profile free agents, such as Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins and defensive end Danielle Hunter, are not considered candidates for the tags as their contracts are set to expire after the tag designation window closes. In some cases, like that of Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Mike Evans, utilizing the franchise tag may not be a feasible option due to its hefty cost of $28 million.
Now, let’s take a look at the top candidates for the franchise and transition tags in 2024, assuming no contract extensions are reached before the deadline.
In the world of NFL free agency, the franchise tag is a tool that teams can use to keep their top players from hitting the open market. This year, several players are potential candidates for the tag, and their projected salaries have been revealed.
One player who could receive the franchise tag is Chris Jones of the Kansas City Chiefs. The star defensive lineman is projected to earn a salary of $32.1 million if tagged. Losing Jones to free agency would be a huge blow for the Chiefs, but using the tag on him for a second straight year would limit their ability to address other needs.
Saquon Barkley of the New York Giants is another player who could be tagged. The running back is projected to earn $12 million if tagged for a second consecutive year. Barkley has expressed a willingness to accept the tag, but negotiations between him and the team could be complicated.
Tee Higgins of the Cincinnati Bengals is a player who could be tagged to prevent him from hitting the open market. The wide receiver is projected to earn $21.6 million if tagged. The Bengals will need time to negotiate with Higgins, as they also have to consider an extension for Ja’Marr Chase.
Josh Allen of the Jacksonville Jaguars is a player who could receive the franchise tag. The linebacker is projected to earn $21.9 million if tagged. Allen is a key part of the Jaguars’ defense and had a standout season in 2023, recording 17.5 sacks.
Brian Burns of the Carolina Panthers is another player who could be tagged. The linebacker is projected to earn $21.9 million if tagged. Burns is the Panthers’ best pass-rusher and has been a consistent performer for the team.
Michael Pittman Jr. of the Indianapolis Colts is a player who could be tagged to keep him from leaving in free agency. The wide receiver is projected to earn $21.6 million if tagged. Pittman had a career year in 2023, recording 109 catches for 1,152 yards and four touchdowns.
Jaylon Johnson of the Chicago Bears is a player who could receive the franchise tag. The cornerback is projected to earn $18.4 million if tagged. Johnson and the Bears have had their ups and downs in contract negotiations, but the team will likely need time to work out a deal.
Antoine Winfield Jr. of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is another player who could be tagged. The safety is projected to earn $17.2 million if tagged. Winfield had a standout season in 2023, earning first-team All-Pro honors.
Christian Wilkins of the Miami Dolphins is a player who could receive the franchise tag. The defensive tackle is projected to earn $19.7 million if tagged. Wilkins had a strong season in 2023, recording 23 quarterback hits and nine sacks.
Justin Madubuike of the Baltimore Ravens is another player who could be tagged. The defensive tackle is projected to earn $19.7 million if tagged. Madubuike had a breakout season in 2023, recording 33 quarterback hits and 13 sacks.
L’Jarius Sneed of the Kansas City Chiefs is a player who could receive the franchise tag. The cornerback is projected to earn $18.4 million if tagged. Sneed is a key part of the Chiefs’ secondary and forms a strong duo with Trent McDuffie.
Baker Mayfield of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is a player who could be tagged, although it would come at a high cost. The quarterback is projected to earn $35.9 million if tagged. Mayfield had a strong season in 2023, but his future with the team is uncertain.
Kamren Curl of the Washington Commanders is a player who could receive the franchise tag. The safety is projected to earn $17.2 million if tagged. Curl has been a pleasant surprise for the Commanders since being drafted in 2020.
Kyle Dugger of the New England Patriots is another player who could be tagged. The safety is projected to earn $17.2 million if tagged. Dugger had a strong season in 2023, playing in 98% of the Patriots’ defensive snaps.
Xavier McKinney of the New York Giants is a player who could receive the franchise tag. The safety is projected to earn $17.2 million if tagged. McKinney has been a solid contributor for the Giants, but his injury history could complicate negotiations.
Bryce Huff of the New York Jets is a player who could be tagged with the transition tag. The defensive end is unlikely to receive the franchise tag, but the transition tag would give the Jets the right of first refusal if he signs with another team.
Jonathan Greenard of the Houston Texans is another player who could be tagged. The defensive end had a breakout season in 2023, recording 12.5 sacks. However, his injury history and lack of a full NFL season could make a tag unlikely.
Marquise Brown of the Arizona Cardinals is a player who could receive the franchise tag. The wide receiver has struggled with injuries and has yet to live up to expectations since being traded to the Cardinals.
Leonard Williams of the Seattle Seahawks is a player who could be tagged, although it is not a great option for the team. Williams received the tag from the Giants in 2021, and using it again would be costly for the Seahawks.
Overall, the franchise tag is a tool that teams can use to keep their top players from leaving in free agency. While it can be expensive, it allows teams to retain key contributors and gives them more time to negotiate long-term contracts.
Breaking News: Shocking Scandal Rocks Hollywood!
In a scandal that has sent shockwaves through Tinseltown, a famous celebrity couple’s marriage is on the brink of collapse. Sources close to the couple reveal that there have been multiple instances of infidelity, leading to a major rift between the two.
The couple, who have been together for over a decade and have two children, were once considered the epitome of a perfect Hollywood romance. However, behind closed doors, it seems that their relationship has been anything but picture-perfect.
Rumors of the husband’s alleged affairs have been circulating for months, but it wasn’t until recently that concrete evidence emerged. A series of incriminating photos and text messages have been leaked to the press, leaving no doubt about the infidelity.
The wife, a well-known actress, is said to be devastated by the betrayal. Friends say she had no idea about her husband’s indiscretions and is now faced with the difficult decision of whether to forgive him or end their marriage.
As news of the scandal broke, social media exploded with reactions from fans and fellow celebrities. Many expressed their shock and disappointment, while others speculated about the future of the couple’s relationship.
This scandal has not only rocked Hollywood but has also captivated the attention of fans worldwide. The public is eagerly awaiting any updates on this developing story, as the fate of this once-beloved couple hangs in the balance.
Stay tuned for more updates on this shocking Hollywood scandal. We will bring you all the latest details as they unfold.
According to the Source sportsgossip.com