What is the franchise tag?

The franchise tag deadline is fast approaching, leaving some NFL fans to wonder: What exactly is the franchise tag?

The franchise tag is a shockingly organization-friendly tactic that forces pending free agents off the market. While it does pay said players top value for their position, said deal is only a one-year contract, making them enter free agency all over again the next season.

This brings up several risks, such as said player getting injured or even basic aging in the year to come, which could impact their overall value.

Last day for franchise tag NFL

The last day to tag players is March 8. From then until July 15 at 4 p.m. ET, players can be signed to a long-term contract if they are on the tag. It basically gives teams more time to sign players to an extension, or forces said player to play out a season on a one-year contract.

NFL franchise tag value 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 tag does pay well, so teams have to be careful before they use it. For example, a backup quarterback will never receive the tag based on the $28 million price tag.