In a flurry of activity ahead of the NFL free agency period, nine teams have used their franchise tags on key players set to hit the open market. The non-exclusive franchise tag was placed on eight players, including the Ravens’ Justin Madubuike, Panthers’ Brian Burns, and Bengals’ Tee Higgins.
The Patriots chose to apply the transition tag to safety Kyle Dugger, while in a separate move, Buccaneers receiver Mike Evans signed a two-year deal to stay in Tampa. However, some big names like Chiefs’ Chris Jones and Vikings’ Kirk Cousins, who were considered top free agents by Pro Football Talk, did not receive the tag.
As the deadline for applying the franchise tag passed, several notable players remain available as unrestricted free agents. Dolphins’ Christian Wilkins, Vikings’ Danielle Hunter, and Patriots’ Michael Onwenu are among the top names on the market. The legal tampering period for free agents is set to begin next week, adding to the anticipation of where these players will land for the upcoming season.
With teams making strategic moves to retain key players or set the stage for negotiations, the NFL free agency period promises to be an exciting and unpredictable time for fans and franchises alike. Stay tuned for more updates and rumors as the offseason heats up on ‘The News Teller’.
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