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NFL Franchise Tag Deadline: Key Players Tagged and Notable Omissions
Overview of the Franchise Tag System
In the National Football League (NFL), the franchise tag is a crucial mechanism that allows teams to protect their talented players from free agency. It ensures that a player can be retained for an additional season while negotiating long-term contracts. Each year, teams must make strategic decisions about whether to apply this tag before the deadline, which can significantly alter team dynamics.
Tee Higgins and Trey Smith Secured with Franchise Tags
This year’s franchise tag period has seen noteworthy developments, particularly for wide receiver Tee Higgins and offensive lineman Trey Smith. By tagging Higgins, the Cincinnati Bengals demonstrate their commitment to retaining one of their star receivers who has proven instrumental in their recent successes. Despite being surrounded by a talented receiving corps, Higgins has shown remarkable potential as a key playmaker.
Similarly, the Kansas City Chiefs opted to place a franchise tag on Trey Smith, further solidifying their offensive line as they prepare for another championship run. With his robustness and skill set, Smith is vital in protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes and paving lanes for star running back Isiah Pacheco.
Both players will now receive substantial salary increases based on the average yearly salary of top players at their respective positions—an opportunity that reflects both their talents and importance on field strategies moving forward.
The Case of Sam Darnold: A Surprising Exclusion
In contrast with these tagged players is quarterback Sam Darnold’s unexpected omission from receiving a franchise tag this season. Despite having moments of brilliance during his tenure with past franchises, Darnold’s performance over recent years has fallen short of expectations. Consequently, team management may be repositioning themselves to explore alternative options at quarterback rather than committing further resources toward him.
This decision highlights how pivotal assessments drive franchising choices; while some athletes secure tags due to immense potential or prior achievements, others might find themselves evaluated differently based on consistency issues or overall impact on game performance.
Implications for Free Agency Season
As we transition into free agency following this significant deadline day drama involving tags applied—and not applied—the landscape appears robustly varied across teams’ plans moving forward. With notable names like Higgins secured under contract protections above market rates simultaneous exploration unfolds around quarterbacks likely figuring into swaps during trades or more acquisitions later downline approaching fresh rosters coming together ahead 2024—keeping fans anticipating major moves ahead!
Stay tuned as organizations continue refining talent rosters while navigating an evolving sport landscape post-tagged player announcements shaping strategies leading towards playoff contention!
