The NFL's 2026 franchise tag window closes today, marking a pivotal moment for several teams. With hours to decide, the choice is clear: tag or let them go. The deadline looms at 4 p.m. ET, prompting teams to act swiftly. For those seeking a deeper understanding of the franchise tag, a comprehensive guide is available here: [https://www.nfl.com/news/2025-nfl-franchise-tag-window-opens-today].
So far, two teams have utilized the franchise tag. The Atlanta Falcons tagged tight end Kyle Pitts for $15.045 million, and the Dallas Cowboys tagged receiver George Pickens for $27.298 million. Both were non-exclusive franchise tags.
While the tag window opened two weeks ago, teams often wait until the final day to make their decisions. This strategy provides more time to negotiate long-term deals and assess all options. In the NFL, as in life, deadlines drive action. Today is a critical day for these decisions.
Several additional tags may be handed out today. The Jets have indicated they'd tag Breece Hall if a deal can't be reached. Cincinnati hasn't ruled out tagging Trey Hendrickson, potentially for trade purposes. The most intriguing scenarios unfold in Indianapolis, where General Manager Chris Ballard faces a choice between QB Daniel Jones and WR Alec Pierce.
Jones might experience déjà vu, recalling his long-term contract with the New York Giants on the final day of the 2023 tag window. This allowed the Giants to tag Saquon Barkley. Could Jones again secure a contract as the franchise tender window closes, enabling Indianapolis to retain Alec Pierce's rights? The possibilities are intriguing: could they sign both players, or might they both enter free agency and potentially find new teams?
Any player not tagged today will sprint towards free agency, but teams can still offer extensions to their own players. The trade market is already heating up, and the new league year on March 11th marks the official start of free agency. It's a race to the finish, and the clock is ticking.
