In the NFL, every moment is utilized efficiently, and teams have commenced the hiring phase to assemble a competitive roster for the 2025 season.

A vital aspect of this process involves identifying the players who will receive the Franchise Player tags, a designation that must be made within two weeks following February 18. This choice has a profound effect on team strategies, salary cap management, and the overall structure of the roster.

An Overview of the Franchise Tag System

National Football League (NFL) teams implement the franchise tag system to secure their essential players and avert their transition into free agency.

This strategy helps maintain continuity and stability within the organization. Nevertheless, the system is intricate, featuring various types of franchise tags and distinct salary frameworks.

Who is Eligible to be a Designated Player

Players whose contracts are approaching expiration are eligible for the franchise tag, as long as their contracts conclude by March 4 at 16:00 ET. Consequently, teams are required to evaluate their rosters and pinpoint players who are essential to their success prior to the deadline.

Franchise Tag Utilization by Teams: An Examination

Teams utilize franchise tags as an effective mechanism to retain premier talent without the necessity of entering into long-term contracts right away. This approach provides organizations with additional time to negotiate multi-year agreements while ensuring that elite players remain under contract for an additional season. However, it is important to note that players who are tagged receive a one-year offer that is typically among the highest salaries in the league.

Various Categories of Franchise Tags

NFL teams have the option to utilize three distinct categories of franchise tags, each carrying unique consequences.

Exclusive Tag

This category of tag fully commits the player to the team. The player’s agent is restricted from pursuing offers from other teams, thereby ensuring that the franchise retains its essential asset without facing any competition.

Non-Exclusive Tag

In contrast to the exclusive tag, the non-exclusive tag permits players to negotiate offers with other teams. Nevertheless, the original team retains the right to match any such offer. Should they opt not to match, they are entitled to receive two first-round draft picks as compensation.

Transition Tag

The transition tag functions similarly to the non-exclusive tag, with one key distinction. The original team has the authority to match any offer made by another franchise, but if they decide not to match, they do not receive any compensation.

Salary Considerations Associated with Franchise Tags

A crucial element that teams need to evaluate prior to implementing a franchise tag is the financial implications. The salaries associated with franchise tags rank among the highest in the league, determined by averaging the top salaries for each respective position. The projected figures for the 2025 season are as follows:

Franchise Tag Compensation by Position

Quarterbacks: $41,325,000 (non-exclusive), $35,267,000 (transition)

Running Backs: $11,951,000 (non-exclusive), $9,765,000 (transition)

Wide Receivers: $25,693,000 (non-exclusive), $22,523,000 (transition)

Tight Ends: $14,241,000 (non-exclusive), $12,069,000 (transition)

Offensive Linemen: $25,156,000 (non-exclusive), $22,745,000 (transition)

Defensive Ends: $24,727,000 (non-exclusive), $20,769,000 (transition)

Defensive Tackles: $23,468,000 (non-exclusive), $18,934,000 (transition)

Linebackers: $27,050,000 (non-exclusive), $22,612,000 (transition)

Cornerbacks: $20,357,000 (non-exclusive), $17,198,000 (transition)

Safeties: $19,626,000 (non-exclusive), $15,598,000 (transition)

Kickers: $6,459,000 (non-exclusive), $5,830,000 (transition)

These figures illustrate the financial implications of designating a player, particularly in high-value roles like quarterback, linebacker, and wide receiver

A player may be tagged a maximum of three times

With each successive tag, the player’s salary experiences a substantial increase:

120% of the salary from the preceding season.

144% of the salary from the preceding season.

This indicates that although a franchise tag may serve as a temporary measure, its financial implications escalate over time. Therefore, teams need to plan meticulously when applying it repeatedly to the same player.

Schedule and Deadlines for Franchise Tags

Upon the assignment of a franchise tag, both the team and the player have until July 15 to engage in discussions regarding a long-term contract. Should they fail to reach an agreement, the player will either compete under the one-year contract or may opt to refrain from participation.

The Significance of the NFL Draft in Completing Team Rosters

Subsequent to the franchise tag period, teams redirect their attention to the NFL Draft, scheduled for April 24-26 in Green Bay.

This draft serves as a pivotal occasion for teams to address any remaining needs and enhance their rosters. Following the draft, organizations will hold rookie minicamps and training sessions to adequately prepare for the forthcoming season.

Expert Editorial Comment

The franchise tag serves as a crucial mechanism within the NFL, enabling teams to keep their premier athletes while navigating the constraints of the salary cap.

Nevertheless, the financial ramifications and strategic factors associated with its use render it a complex instrument. As the 2025 season draws near, teams will persist in assessing their alternatives, striving to make optimal choices for constructing a competitive lineup.