NFL franchise tag period to provide Bears with insight on dual aspects as free agency approaches
The NFL's offseason officially commenced on Tuesday with the opening of the franchise tag window, running from February 20 to March 5. This period allows teams to apply franchise or transition tags to players nearing the end of their contracts.
Franchise tags are typically utilized closer to the window's end, with teams having until mid-July to negotiate long-term deals with tagged players. If no agreement is reached, the player is committed to a one-year contract, though negotiations for incentives can continue within the tag's one-year framework.
The Chicago Bears are in the spotlight during this window, particularly regarding star cornerback Jaylon Johnson, who is anticipated to be tagged as negotiations for a long-term deal proceed with General Manager Ryan Poles.
Tagging Johnson would allocate $18.8 million towards the Bears' 2024 cap space unless an alternative agreement is finalized by mid-July. Moreover, the tag window will shed light on the broader free agent market, crucial for the Bears as they aim to address roster gaps in key positions such as wide receiver, center, safety, and defensive end.
High-profile free agents like Tee Higgins, Antoine Winfield, Brian Burns, Josh Allen, and Justin Madubuike are expected to be tagged, narrowing the Bears' options. Conversely, players like Mike Evans, Chris Jones, Bryce Huff, Kyle Dugger, and Danielle Hunter are less likely to be tagged, with Hunter having a no-tag clause.
Following the releases of Eddie Jackson and Cody Whitehair, the Bears have approximately $67 million in cap space, which realistically adjusts to around $50 million after accounting for draft slots, the 51-man roster, and in-season expenses. Tagging Johnson would reduce the available spending to just under $30 million, with numerous positions still needing reinforcement.
This tag window offers GM Ryan Poles a clearer view of the free agent landscape, aiding in strategic planning for the team's future. With significant decisions to make, including potentially tagging Johnson, the Bears' approach to free agency and managing their cap space will be critical in shaping their roster for the upcoming season. The NFL Scouting Combine next week will further assist the Bears in refining their offseason strategy, starting with the decision on Johnson and assessing the free agent pool after other teams have made their moves.
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