Kansas City, MO – The NFL’s franchise tag window has officially closed, with only two players receiving the designation this year. Chiefs guard Trey Smith and Bengals receiver Tee Higgins are the sole recipients of the franchise tag for the 2022 season. This marks the lowest number of franchise tags used since 2006 when only one player, cornerback Nate Clements of the Bills, was tagged.
In contrast to the eight players tagged last year, the 2022 season has seen a significant decrease in the utilization of franchise tags. In 2012, a total of 18 players received the franchise tag, including kickers and a punter. However, this year’s low number reflects a shift in teams’ strategies when it comes to securing key players.
Smith and Higgins now have until July 15 to negotiate multi-year contracts with their respective teams. Until they agree to a deal, they are not obligated to participate in mandatory minicamps or training camps. This gives them the flexibility to hold out until just before the start of the season, potentially maximizing their financial opportunities.
While the risk of having the tag rescinded exists, it is a rare occurrence in the NFL. The last time a team removed the franchise tag was in 2016 when the Panthers parted ways with cornerback Josh Norman. Teams are generally committed to keeping their tagged players and working towards a long-term agreement to secure their contributions for the upcoming season.
As Smith and Higgins navigate the negotiation process with their teams, the franchise tag provides them with a significant bargaining chip. It ensures that they will receive a lucrative one-year deal if a long-term contract is not reached by the deadline. With time still on their side, both players have the opportunity to explore all options and secure a favorable outcome for their future in the NFL.