NFL franchise tag 2022: 10 players most likely to be tagged

The franchise tag is the bane of NFL free agency for top players. These 10 stars could be stuck with the tag by their teams this offseason.

There are two dirty words in NFL free agency: “franchise tag”. This designation does offer the chance for star players to be paid handsomely by their teams but essentially prevents them from testing the free-agent market.

It is an unfortunate situation for players but it’s hard to blame prospective Super Bowl contenders from letting key contributors get away if they don’t have to. Here’s a look at 10 prospective free agents that could be staring at a franchise tag this offseason if they can’t agree to long-term deals with their current teams.

10. NFL free agents likely to get the franchise tag – Dalton Schultz

The Cowboys have a lot of work to do during the offseason and finding a way to keep Dalton Schultz is high on their wish list. Schultz set career-highs across the board as Dak Prescott’s security blanket down the middle and would be a top target for teams in need of tight end help on the market.

There is no question that Dallas’ questionable cap situation makes tagging Schultz a risk, particularly if it comes at the cost of moving Amari Cooper to create the necessary room. The problem is that the Cowboys’ options at tight end beyond Schultz are extremely limited while Dallas could re-sign Michael Gallup to pair with CeeDee Lamb and have a strong pair of pass-catchers.

The franchise tag value for tight ends is expected to be just under $11 million, which is a fair value for a talented player like Schultz. Don’t be shocked if Dallas does some salary cap magic to be able to afford the tag for Schultz.