Dee Ford Receptive To Franchise Tag

Following a breakout 2018 campaign, Chiefs linebacker Dee Ford set himself up nicely for a payday this offseason. However, the impending free agent made it clear that he’d be open to accepting the franchise tag should it come his way.

“That’s out of my control,” Ford said (via Herbie Teope of NFL.com). “If it happens, it happens, and I don’t mind it.”

While a long-term contract is naturally preferable, it makes sense that Ford wouldn’t scoff at the franchise tag. After all, the linebacker value should come in north of $15MM, and ProFootballTalk.com’s Mike Florio says Ford could earn even more if he’s designated as a defensive end. Regardless of the financials, the five-year veteran made it clear that he wants to stay in Kansas City.

“That’s the option,” Ford said. “Of course, that’s home to me. I love the community and I’m just used to that environment, so I’ll be blessed to be able to stay. We’ll cross that bridge once when we get there.”

The 27-year-old made his first Pro Bowl this season after finishing with career-highs in tackles (55), sacks (13), and forced fumbles (league-leading seven). The 2014 first-rounder had previously shown signs of stardom, including a 2016 campaign when he compiled 10 sacks. However, Ford truly established himself as one of the top pass-rushers in the NFL in 2018; Pro Football Focus ultimately ranked him 11th among 103 eligible edge defenders.

While retaining Ford is obviously a priority for the Chiefs, the team will also have to make decisions on a number of other impending free agents. Defensive lineman Allen Bailey, wide receiver Chris Conley, center Mitch Morse, and cornerbacks Steven Nelson and Orlando Scandrick are set to hit the open market. The team is also reportedly eyeing extensions for quarterback Patrick Mahomes, wideout Tyreek Hill, and defensive end Chris Jones.
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