Chiefs use franchise tag to protect Patrick Mahomes

The Kansas City Chiefs used the franchise tag on offensive tackle Orlando Brown Monday morning, protecting Patrick Mahomes in the process.

Brown became the first soon-to-be free agent to receive the franchise tag. The two sides could still negotiate a long-term deal, but for now, this ties Brown to the Chiefs organization.

The 25-year-old has proven himself a franchise left tackle at his best, but is flexible enough to play both positions. With the Baltimore Ravens, he received plenty of experience on the other side of the offensive line.

Keeping Mahomes upright is the Chiefs’ key concern, and by giving Brown what he’s worth, they’re protecting their best investment in the Texas Tech product. Mahomes signed a 10-year extension worth up to $503 million in 2020.

What is the franchise tag?

Each franchise gets only one franchise tag and transition tag per offseason. It guarantees said player who receives the tag stays with the team which opted to use it.

The tag pays players a fully-guaranteed, one-year contract. This year, it’ll pay Brown upwards of $16.698 million.

The Chiefs gave up four draft picks to acquire Brown, including their 2021 first-round pick. They realized his value and made it worth the Ravens’ while, as Brown wanted to play left tackle, a position that was unfortunately occupied by Ronnie Stanley — another excellent OT.

How much does the franchise tag pay?

While Brown will make nearly $17 million, the amount of money received varies by position.

• Quarterback – $28.598 million
• Running back – $12.536 million
• Wide receiver – $19.127 million
• Tight end – $10.834 million
• Offensive line – $16.698 million
• Defensive end – $20.186 million
• Defensive tackle – $16.888 million
• Linebacker – $17.417 million
• Cornerback – $17.295 million
• Safety – $13.544 million
• Special Teams – $5.469 million

The number varies for premium positions, and decreases based on the top-paid player at each position. Quarterbacks, obviously, receive the most money.