Franchise Tag Fever: 14 Players Poised for Big Decisions This Offseason

The Franchise Tag Window: What You Need to Know

The NFL franchise tag window opens on Tuesday, lasting until 4 p.m. ET on March 3. During this period, teams can utilize the franchise tag on one player who is set to become an unrestricted free agent. This mechanism is a strategic move, allowing teams to retain valuable talent while negotiating longer-term contracts.

It's important to note that the franchise tag figures are determined based on the top five annual salaries at each position. The stakes rise each subsequent season, adding pressure to teams as they weigh the costs against extending the player or pursuing alternative options.

Last season, we witnessed a muted tagging landscape, with only two players—Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins and Kansas City Chiefs guard Trey Smith—receiving the tag. The dynamics this offseason seem poised for a more active approach. Below, I'll break down the candidates across the league who are most likely to attract this franchise designation.

Potential Franchise Tag Candidates

As we approach the closing days of the franchise tagging window, let's evaluate some key players across the league poised for tagging:

Atlanta Falcons: Kyle Pitts Sr.

After a rocky start to his career, tight end Kyle Pitts has recently reclaimed his standing in the league. Following a breakout season, he finished second among tight ends in receptions and receiving yards in 2025. With the Falcons reticent to risk losing their most potent offensive weapon, tagging Pitts could provide further insight into his long-term potential.

Cincinnati Bengals: Trey Hendrickson

The Bengals have a complex choice ahead with defensive end Trey Hendrickson. While Hendrickson has been instrumental since arriving in Cincinnati, the projected tag of over $30 million could complicate matters significantly. Cincinnati may prefer revising its defense rather than allocating such a substantial sum to a single player.

Dallas Cowboys: George Pickens

After a standout year, wide receiver George Pickens has firmly established himself as the Cowboys' premier receiving threat. The franchise tag could serve as a stopgap measure, allowing Dallas to negotiate a more favorable long-term deal while ensuring his presence through the 2026 season.

Indianapolis Colts: Daniel Jones & Alec Pierce

Quarterback Daniel Jones and wide receiver Alec Pierce both present intriguing scenarios for the Colts. While the tag salaries might be higher than either could expect on the open market, using this designation could help safeguard against potential losses.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Devin Lloyd & Travis Etienne Jr.

Both Devin Lloyd (LB) and Travis Etienne (RB) have had solid seasons. However, with cap commitments elsewhere, the Jaguars may opt not to use the tag on either player this year, evaluating other, less costly options.

Los Angeles Chargers: Odafe Oweh

The Chargers are facing a pivotal moment with outside linebacker Odafe Oweh, who closed out the season strong but also carries significant financial implications associated with a franchise tag projected at around $27.8 million.

New York Giants: Jermaine Eluemunor, Cor'Dale Flott, & Wan'Dale Robinson

The Giants are evaluating their approach with offensive tackle Jermaine Eluemunor, cornerback Cor'Dale Flott, and wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson. Each brings significant value, but the steep costs of franchise tags could lead New York to explore alternative arrangements.

New York Jets: Breece Hall

Running back Breece Hall has emerged as a star, and after rushing for over 1,000 yards, he could follow a path toward the franchise tag as the Jets look to solidify their offensive well into the future.

San Francisco 49ers: Eddy Piñeiro

Although kickers aren't traditionally tagged, the 49ers might consider doing so with Eddy Piñeiro after he cemented his role with strong performances throughout the season. His reliability could prompt the 49ers to consider a franchise tag as they seek a long-term solution at the position.

Seattle Seahawks: Kenneth Walker III

Finally, we have Kenneth Walker III. The Super Bowl MVP's strong finish to the 2025 season puts him in the spotlight, but historical retention strategies suggest Seattle may resist tagging him this season, trusting in negotiations to keep him in the fold.

Conclusion

The franchise tag serves as a critical tool for teams in the NFL offseason, balancing the immediate need to retain talent against long-term financial strategies. As teams gear up for the tag window's opening, the decisions made could shape not only player careers but also the trajectories of franchises seeking success in the 2026 season.