We round up all the last minute franchise tagging, who got tagged, and who becomes a free agent.
The big surprise of the day came in Kansas City, where the Chiefs used their franchise tag on offensive tackle Branden Albert, whom many believed would be released to free space for expected number one draft pick Luke Joeckel.
The fact that the Chiefs have made this decision will surprise a few, as Albert was expected to hit the free agency market tomorrow.
This will also allow the Chiefs to potentially discuss a long-term deal with the tackle, and could also be a suggestion that the Chiefs have something else planned for that top pick.
Elsewhere, another surprise came in Tennesse as tight end Jared Cook was also left without the expected tag, and is now free to hit the market.
While not an elite talent, Cook will command some interest from other teams; Atlanta will wait on the decision of Tony Gonzalez before making a move, or he could potentially rejoin his old coach Jeff Fisher in St. Louis.
Glover Quin of Houston and Dashon Goldson of San Francisco were the final two surprises that were left without the tag. Both are supremely talented defenders, and will command a big interest in free agency.
For those that were applied with the tag, Anthony Spencer was given the tag for the second year running in Dallas, as both sides continue to stall over a long-term deal. While it is clear that Dallas want the linebacker to stay, and Spencer wants to stay in Dallas, they just can’t agree on a price, something which may result in the pro-bowl player leaving.
One final player that was given the franchise tag was Buffalo Bills safety Jairus Byrd. Byrd may be the best young safety in the AFC and it is clear that the Bills want more time to discuss a long-term deal with the player. He makes their defence so much better when he is on the field and is imperative to the teams potential playoff chances.
A full list of those who did and didn’t get franchise tagged can be seen here on NFL.com.
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