The NFL’s franchise tag is a lifeline or a leash. For some teams, it’s the protection they need to work out a long term deal with a homegrown superstar before he can hit the open market of free agency. For others (specifically the Washington Commanders), it’s the only way to keep a trusted player in the fold when contract negotiations break down.
The 2022 franchise tag window opened February 22nd to little aplomb. That window closes March 8; we’ve already seen hints of the action to come. The Cleveland Browns were the first team to exercise their tag this offseason, keeping tight end David Njoku in the fold in hopes he’ll finally pay off his first round draft pick potential. Players like Orlando Brown and Chris Godwin are expected to join him.
Here are the players who have either been tagged before the 4pm ET deadline or reportedly will be.
