The 2018 NFL franchise tag deadline has come and gone. Five players received the franchise tag before 4pm ET/3pm CT and one player was hit with the less frequently used transition tag.
Franchise tagged players:
- Jarvis Landry, Dolphins (story)
- Ezekiel Ansah, Lions (story)
- Demarcus Lawrence, Cowboys (story)
- Lamarcus Joyner, Rams (story)
- Le’Veon Bell, Steelers (story)
Transition tagged players:
- Kyle Fuller, Bears (story)
Several high-profile players that were in the mix for the tag did not receive the designation. Among those to escape the tag were top free agent wide receivers Sammy Watkins of the Rams and Allen Robinson of the Jaguars, although both teams are reported to have interest in retaining them. We’ve known for a while that the Vikings would not tag quarterback Case Keenum and they indeed will allow him to reach free agency as they evaluate other options under center. There was some chatter about the Redskins tagging Kirk Cousins, but they came to their senses and, finally, allowed him to test the open waters.
The odds were always against the Patriots and 49ers using the costly $11.866MM tag for running backs on Dion Lewis and Carlos Hyde, respectively, but we now know that for sure. Both players are on course for free agency on Wednesday, March 14, barring an extension in the next eight days.
I wish the Steelers had used the non-exclusive franchise tag on Bell, but so be it.
Not like it matters, really… there is no difference in salary, and no one is going to give him a contract AND two first round picks. If he gets the nonexclusive tag, the Steelers are just hoping another front office is filled with idiots.
Browns Front Office: “Hold my beer…”
Pure magic!
Well done
Did they not meet with you first?