The Franchise Tag: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
As the NFL season nears its end, teams begin to prepare for the upcoming free agency period. One key aspect of this preparation is the franchise tag, a designation that allows teams to retain a star player while limiting their negotiating rights. This article provides a detailed overview of the franchise tag, including its value, types, and position-specific breakdowns.
Value of the Franchise Tag
The value of the franchise tag is largely determined by the position of the player receiving it. While it can be worth 120% of a player’s previous salary, it is more commonly based on an average of the salaries of the top-paid players at their position.
Types of Franchise Tags
There are three types of franchise tags:
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Non-Exclusive Franchise Tag: Allows players to negotiate with other teams, but the original team can match any offer or receive two first-round picks as compensation if the player departs. Its value is either the average of the top five salaries at the player’s position over the last five years or 120% of the player’s last salary (whichever is greater).
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Transition Franchise Tag: Similar to the non-exclusive tag, but the original team receives no compensation if the player departs. It is worth the average of the top 10 salaries at the player’s position in the current year.
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Exclusive Franchise Tag: The most restrictive tag, which gives the original team exclusive negotiating rights with the player. It is worth either the top five salaries at the player’s position in the current year or 120% of his previous salary (whichever is greater).
Franchise Tag Value by Position (2025)
The following table provides a breakdown of franchise tag values for each position in 2025:
| Position | Non-Exclusive Tag | Transition Tag | Exclusive Tag |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quarterback | $33.1 million | $37.2 million | $41.3 million |
| Running Back | $10.7 million | $12.7 million | $14.6 million |
| Wide Receiver | $19.4 million | $22.3 million | $25.2 million |
| Tight End | $11.5 million | $13.2 million | $14.9 million |
| Offensive Line | $16.6 million | $19.6 million | $22.6 million |
| Defensive Line | $18.9 million | $22.1 million | $25.3 million |
| Linebacker | $16.3 million | $19.3 million | $22.3 million |
| Cornerback | $18.6 million | $21.8 million | $25.0 million |
| Safety | $14.6 million | $17.0 million | $19.4 million |
Implications for Teams and Players
The franchise tag is a powerful tool for teams looking to retain key players, but it can also have significant implications for the player’s future. Players receiving the franchise tag may be dissatisfied with their salary and seek a long-term contract or explore free agency options.
For teams, using the franchise tag can be a way to avoid losing a star player and maintain continuity on the roster. However, it can also limit the team’s salary cap flexibility and potentially lead to a strained relationship with the player.
Conclusion
The franchise tag is a complex and important aspect of NFL free agency. By understanding its value, types, and implications, teams and players can make informed decisions that maximize their opportunities and protect their interests. As the upcoming free agency period approaches, the franchise tag will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the future of the NFL.
