The NFL’s Franchise Tag Dance: What It Means for Players and Teams in 2026
The two-week window for NFL teams to apply the franchise tag opens on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, and closes on March 3. This critical period dictates the immediate futures of several key players, as teams weigh the cost of retaining talent against the potential benefits of long-term contracts or exploring free agency. The franchise tag allows teams to keep one impending free agent for the 2026 season, but at a significant price.
Understanding the Franchise Tag and Its Implications
Franchise tag figures are determined by the average of the top five salaries at each position. Applying the tag isn’t a simple decision; teams must assess whether the cost aligns with the player’s value and their overall cap situation. Last year, only two players received the tag: Tee Higgins of the Cincinnati Bengals and Trey Smith of the Kansas City Chiefs.
Spotlight on Key Players Facing Potential Tags
Several players across the league are considered potential candidates for the franchise tag. Here’s a breakdown of some notable cases:
Atlanta Falcons: Tight Conclude Kyle Pitts Sr.
After a perceived slump in his early career, Kyle Pitts re-emerged as a top tight end in 2025. Finishing second among tight ends in receptions (88) and receiving yards (928), with five touchdown catches, Pitts became a crucial target, especially after Drake London’s injury. The Falcons may use the tag to evaluate his continued performance and determine if a long-term extension is warranted.
Cincinnati Bengals: Defensive End Trey Hendrickson
Trey Hendrickson has been a standout performer for the Bengals since joining the team in 2021. However, the potential $30.2 million price tag associated with the franchise tag, and his age (turning 32 next season) may give the Bengals pause. The team might opt to retool other areas of their defense instead of committing significant resources to one player.
Dallas Cowboys: Wide Receiver George Pickens
Acquired by the Cowboys last offseason, George Pickens quickly established himself as a key receiver, putting up career highs in catches (92), yards (1,429), and touchdowns (nine). He filled the No. 1 receiver role effectively while CeeDee Lamb dealt with injuries. Both Pickens and the Cowboys have expressed a desire to continue their relationship, making the franchise tag a potential stepping stone toward a long-term agreement.
Indianapolis Colts: Quarterback Daniel Jones & Wide Receiver Alec Pierce
The Colts face decisions regarding both Daniel Jones and Alec Pierce. While the franchise tag salaries are substantial, both players have indicated a desire to remain with the team. Jones’ return seems likely, while Pierce’s situation is more fluid, given the team’s existing investments in other receivers.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Linebacker Devin Lloyd & Running Back Travis Etienne Jr.
Devin Lloyd had a breakout season in 2025, becoming an All-Pro selection. However, the Jaguars may hesitate to use the tag due to the high cost for a non-pass-rushing linebacker. Travis Etienne Jr., despite exceeding 1,000 rushing yards, saw his production decline late in the season, potentially impacting his tag candidacy.
Los Angeles Chargers: Outside Linebacker Odafe Oweh
Oweh experienced a resurgence with the Chargers after being traded mid-season, finishing with 7.5 sacks and a strong playoff performance. While promising, the projected tag cost could be a deterrent for the Chargers.
New York Giants: Right Tackle Jermaine Eluemunor, Cornerback Cor’Dale Flott, & Wide Receiver Wan’Dale Robinson
The Giants have multiple potential candidates, but the high franchise tag numbers for these positions may develop it unlikely they’ll use the tag on any of them. They may prefer to pursue other options in free agency or the draft.
New York Jets: Running Back Breece Hall
Breece Hall’s strong performance in 2025, exceeding 1,000 rushing yards, makes him a valuable asset. The Jets may consider the tag, but a long-term deal is more likely.
San Francisco 49ers: Kicker Eddy Piñeiro
Eddy Piñeiro proved to be a reliable solution to the 49ers’ kicking woes in 2025. While the 49ers might prefer not to use the tag on a kicker, they may consider it to ensure stability at the position.
Seattle Seahawks: Running Back Kenneth Walker III
Kenneth Walker III’s strong finish to the 2025 season positions him as a potential tag candidate. However, the Seahawks have historically been reluctant to use the franchise tag, and the projected cost for running backs could influence their decision.
The Future of the Franchise Tag
The franchise tag remains a contentious issue in the NFL, balancing team control with player rights. As salaries continue to rise, the cost of the tag will likely turn into even more prohibitive, potentially leading to fewer players being tagged and more emphasis on long-term contract negotiations. The trend suggests teams are increasingly hesitant to use the tag unless they are confident in reaching a long-term agreement.
FAQ
Q: What is the franchise tag?
A: It’s a designation teams can use to retain one impending free agent for an additional year.
Q: How much does the franchise tag cost?
A: It varies by position, based on the average of the top five salaries at that position.
Q: Can a player negotiate after being tagged?
A: Yes, teams and players can continue negotiating a long-term contract even after the tag is applied.
Q: What happens if a player doesn’t sign the franchise tender?
A: They can choose not to sign, but they cannot play for another team until they sign the tender or a long-term deal.
Did you know? The franchise tag was first introduced in 1993, aiming to give teams more control over retaining key players.
Pro Tip: Players facing a potential franchise tag should proactively engage with their teams to discuss long-term contract options before the tag window opens.
Stay tuned for further updates as the franchise tag window unfolds and teams make their crucial decisions. Explore our other articles for in-depth analysis of NFL free agency and the draft.
