Navigating the Complex World of NFL Franchise Tags
The NFL offseason is always a fascinating time, filled with potential changes that can make or break a franchise's future. One of the most strategic tools at a team’s disposal during this period is the franchise tag. This instrument empowers teams to retain their top talent while they work on long-term plans. In 2025, teams have a 15-day window, from February 18 to March 4, to make their moves using these tags, and the choices they make can have long-lasting implications.
Understanding the Types of Franchise Tags
Diving into the world of franchise tags reveals two primary types: exclusive and non-exclusive. The non-exclusive franchise tag is calculated on either 120% of the player's previous salary or the average of the top five salaries in their position, whichever is more. This tag allows players the flexibility to negotiate with other teams, giving their current team the option to match any offer. As for the exclusive tag, it provides a heftier payout, based on the higher of similar calculations, but restricts players from even talking with other teams. Each method comes with its strategic uses, depending on the team’s goals.
Adding another layer of complexity is the transition tag. This one calculates using the average of the top ten salaries at the player’s position, inclusive of the 120% rule. However, if another team makes an offer and it isn't matched, the current team doesn’t receive any compensation, making it a much riskier move.
The Strategic Play: Multiyear Agreements and Salary Cap Considerations
In recent years, the franchise tag has seen a varied success rate in locking players into multiyear deals. For instance, seven out of eight players tagged in a particular year ended up with multiyear contracts. But between 2021 and 2023, fewer than half of tagged players secured long-term contracts, highlighting the uncertainty involved.
As the league looks towards 2025, the salary cap is projected to sit between $265 million and $275 million, offering teams more leeway to maneuver. The Minnesota Vikings, for example, are considering their options with Sam Darnold, who’s on a $10 million one-year "bridge" deal. It’s an interesting situation, as they could free up a substantial $65 million in cap space should Darnold depart. An unnamed source noted, "Since Darnold would clearly be the top quarterback available on the open market, using a franchise tag to trade him isn't out of the question." If they opt not to tag him, there's the added risk of losing out on a 2026 compensatory draft pick, as another source speculated.
Cases in Point: Players and the Financial Balancing Act
Chris Godwin finds himself in an unusual position where a repeat tag brings about untenably high costs due to the calculation methods. Meanwhile, the Bengals have already placed a hefty $21.816 million franchise tag on Tee Higgins. In another notable change, Russell Wilson has made the move to the Pittsburgh Steelers after parting ways with the Denver Broncos, showing how dynamic and unpredictable player movements can be alongside these financial considerations.
This year, the franchise tag seems to be operating more in line with its original intent – a sentiment echoed by an unnamed source who highlighted its return to foundational principles. As teams navigate these waters, it’s clear that every decision carries weight, impacting both financial flexibility and team composition. The offseason is not just about player movement; it's a complex dance of numbers, negotiations, and nurtured relationships, setting the stage for the upcoming season and beyond.