Winners and Losers of the NFL Franchise Tag Deadline
**Summary:** The NFL franchise tag deadline has come and gone, leaving some players tagged and others heading to free agency. Let's take a look at the winners and losers of this year's deadline.
Summary: The NFL franchise tag deadline has come and gone, leaving some players tagged and others heading to free agency. Let's take a look at the winners and losers of this year's deadline.
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The NFL's franchise tag deadline has passed, with eight players receiving the tag. While some players were tagged, others were left to test the free-agent market. The franchise tag can be a double-edged sword, offering guaranteed money for one year but potentially hindering long-term contract opportunities.
Winners and Losers of the Deadline
Winner: Saquon Barkley
Barkley, not tagged by the Giants, now has the chance to explore free agency and find a better fit for his career. A potential landing spot could be the Ravens, offering Barkley a shot at a Super Bowl run.
Loser: Calvin Ridley
Ridley, after a year off due to personal reasons, will now enter free agency without the security of the franchise tag. Finding a team willing to match the tag's salary will be a challenge for Ridley.
Winner: Tee Higgins
Despite wanting a long-term deal, Higgins benefits from the tag with increased earnings and a chance to build his market value in Cincinnati. The rising salary cap works in Higgins' favor.
Loser: Baker Mayfield
Mayfield, not tagged by the Buccaneers, faces uncertainty heading into free agency. While a return to Tampa is possible, his future as the starting quarterback remains in question.
Winner: Chris Jones
Jones, not tagged by the Chiefs, now has the opportunity to secure a long-term deal either in Kansas City or elsewhere. His All-Pro performance makes him a sought-after free agent.
Loser: Antoine Winfield Jr.
Winfield, not tagged by the Buccaneers, misses out on a higher salary for 2024. A long-term deal negotiation window provides a chance for him to secure a lucrative contract.
Winner: Xavier McKinney
McKinney's situation differs from Winfield's, as the former Giant now has the spotlight to earn a big payday with a robust market. His timing aligns well with his free agency.
Loser: Josh Jacobs
Jacobs, not tagged by the Raiders, enters free agency after a career-low year. He faces tough competition among free agent running backs in the market.
Winner: L'Jarius Sneed
Sneed, tagged by the Chiefs, sees a bump in earnings for the season, strengthening his market value for the future. The tag offers financial security while he awaits a long-term deal.
Loser: Brian Burns
Burns, with the non-exclusive tag from the Panthers, seeks a long-term deal after playing under the fifth-year option. Despite his production, Burns aims for a lucrative contract or potential offers from other teams.
The franchise tag deadline has set the stage for an exciting free agency period, with players jockeying for long-term security and competitive salaries in the NFL landscape.
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Hey, I'm Hamza Ilyas, Dubai's very own sports and entertainment guru. Started off at The Aquila School and kicked it at Ajman Academy too. Now, I'm all about bringing you the hottest takes and coolest news from the world of sports and entertainment. Buckle up, it's gonna be one heck of a ride. Connect With Me