Super Bowl LX is now history. With a defense that played by note for the Seahawks and Jason Myers setting a new field goal record, Seattle has taken home the Lombardi trophy and the NFL has entered the offseason.
Before free agency, teams will have to decide whether to apply the franchise tag to players such as George Pickens or Daniel Jones.
What is the franchise tag in the NFL?
The window to apply the franchise tag in the 2026 offseason opens from February 17 to March 3. This mechanism allows teams to retain players who are about to become free agents, ensuring their stay for one year with a guaranteed contract.
There are two main types: exclusive and non-exclusive. In the exclusive type, the player cannot negotiate with other teams and receives a salary based on the average of the five highest contracts at his position or 120% of his previous salary, whichever is greater.
In the non-exclusive version, the player can negotiate in the market. If he signs an outside offer and his team decides not to match it, the franchise receives two first-round picks as compensation.
By 2026, the projected figures are high:
- Quarterback: $47.3 million
- Wide receiver: $28.8 million
- Running back: $14.5 million
- Tight end: $16.3 million
George Pickens, a key decision for Dallas
One of the most striking names is the receiver George Pickens. After a standout season with the Dallas Cowboys, where he recorded 93 receptions, 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns, he is shaping up to be one of the most attractive free agents.
The dilemma for Dallas is financial. The team is projected to be over the salary cap, so applying the tag, which would be around $28 million, would require significant adjustments to the roster. However, letting him go would open the door for other teams to make him a priority.
Daniel Jones and the Indianapolis gamble
The case of quarterback Daniel Jones with the Indianapolis Colts is different. Indianapolis recently invested draft capital and needs stability at the most important position on the field.
Although Jones suffered an Achilles tendon injury late in the campaign, he had thrown for more than 3,100 yards with 19 touchdowns. The franchise tag could serve as a “bridge year” to evaluate his recovery before committing to a long-term deal worth close to $47 million.
Other candidates to watch in 2026
The list does not end there. Names such as Kyle Pitts (Atlanta), Breece Hall (Jets) and offensive lineman Rasheed Walker (Green Bay) could also receive the designation.
Each decision will depend on recent performance, age, medical history and, above all, available salary space. The question is not only who deserves this distinction, but who can afford it without compromising the future.
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