With NFL free agency set to kick off next week, teams had until 4:00 pm Eastern on Tuesday, March 4, to decide whether or not to franchise tag soon-to-be free agents. While the tag keeps players from hitting the open market, it does not guarantee they will play under a one-year deal in 2025. The player can still sign a long-term contract or even be traded. For more on the franchise tag, read Dave Kluge's article explaining the designation. Here is the list of every player tagged before the deadline.
Players Who Received The Franchise Tag in 2025
This year was a thin list: wide receiver Tee Higgins and guard Trey Smith. You have to go back over three decades to only have two tags applied.
Only two players — Tee Higgins and Trey Smith — were tagged this year, the fewest number of players tagged since 1994, when Eric Green and Henry Thomas were tagged, per @EpKap.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 4, 2025
There were eight players given the franchise tag last year and there have been at least six players…
WR Tee Higgins, Cincinnati Bengals
For the second year in a row, Higgins has received the franchise tag. Because of the repeat tag, he will receive $26.2 million guaranteed for 2025. The Bengals are focused on signing Higgins to a long-term deal before the start of the season, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.
Check out Higgins' Fantasy Outlook for 2025 from Bob Harris!
G Trey Smith, Kansas City Chiefs
Smith's one-year deal would be worth $23.4 million, all guaranteed. That amount is the highest ever for a guard in the NFL. Smith was tagged a week ahead of the deadline, but according to Ian Rapoport, the team is still optimistic they can agree on a long-term contract.
Be sure to follow Ryan Weisse and Footballguys on X to stay up-to-date on fantasy football news this offseason.
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