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Franchise Tag Window Opens: Key Players at Risk

2/17/2026

24 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Franchise Tag Candidates

The NFL franchise tag window runs February 17 through March 3, allowing teams to tag one player set to become an unrestricted free agent.
A franchise tag guarantees a one-year contract equal to top-five salary average or 120% of prior salary.
Teams may use exclusive, non-exclusive, or transition tags to retain players.
Notable tagging candidates include George Pickens of the Dallas Cowboys and Daniel Jones of the Indianapolis Colts.

History

Historical Context

The NFL introduced the franchise tag system in 1993 to help teams retain key players amid salary cap constraints. This mechanism allows teams, such as the Dallas Cowboys and Indianapolis Colts, to secure talent by offering contracts based on the top-five salary averages at a player's position. The system significantly impacts player mobility and team stability in professional football.

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Franchise Tag Candidates

The NFL franchise tag window runs February 17 through March 3, allowing teams to tag one player set to become an unrestricted free agent.
A franchise tag guarantees a one-year contract equal to top-five salary average or 120% of prior salary.
Teams may use exclusive, non-exclusive, or transition tags to retain players.
Notable tagging candidates include George Pickens of the Dallas Cowboys and Daniel Jones of the Indianapolis Colts.

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