As the NFL offseason unfolds, teams across the league are grappling with the strategic use of the franchise tag. The New York Jets, facing salary cap constraints, are expected to exceed $20 million for a cornerback, a financial commitment they deem too extravagant. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons' high-profile free agents, including edge rusher Matthew Judon, safety Justin Simmons, and center Drew Dalman, present critical decisions for the franchise.
The Chicago Bears opted to deploy the franchise tag on cornerback Jaylon Johnson in 2024 to secure a long-term deal. This move reflects their commitment to maintaining a strong secondary. Conversely, the Green Bay Packers have exercised the franchise tag only once in the past 15 years, indicating a frugal approach to player retention.
The New York Giants demonstrated patience in their roster management strategy by allowing a player to test free agency, ultimately re-signing him to a two-year, $12 million contract after the 2022 season. Similarly, the Philadelphia Eagles last resorted to the franchise tag in 2012 when they tagged wide receiver DeSean Jackson.
For the Pittsburgh Steelers, financial prudence is paramount. Despite having several noteworthy free agents, the prohibitive cost of using the franchise tag has led them to explore alternative retention strategies. The Cincinnati Bengals face a similar predicament with seven starters poised to become unrestricted free agents; however, none are deemed worthy of the franchise tag.
Under General Manager John Schneider's leadership, the Seattle Seahawks have sparingly utilized the tag, doing so only twice since his arrival in 2010. The Kansas City Chiefs confront a dilemma with guard Trey Smith. While reluctant to lose such a key player, the projected $25 million cost of tagging him threatens to derail their broader re-signing plans.
Historically conservative with their use of the franchise tag, the Las Vegas Raiders have tagged only six players in their history, most recently running back Josh Jacobs in 2023. The Baltimore Ravens have been more inclined to use the tag, placing it on quarterback Lamar Jackson in 2023 and defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike in previous years.
In recent years, the New Orleans Saints have tagged sparingly, with safety Marcus Williams receiving a $10 million tag in 2021. The Dallas Cowboys face a challenging decision with defensive lineman Osa Odighizuwa, whose projected tag cost exceeds $23 million.
Lastly, outside linebacker Khalil Mack presents a unique case. Due to a contract restructure last season, he is not eligible for the franchise tag this year, removing one potential avenue for his retention.
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