Some of the biggest stars in the National Football League are set to become free agents.
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Davante Adams, Los Angeles Rams edge rusher Von Miller and New Orleans Saints tackle Terron Armstead are just a few big names at the end of their contracts ahead of the 2022-2023 NFL season.
Some teams are moving to keep their stars around for at least another year by exercising the NFL’s franchise tag.
The Cincinnati Bengals franchise tagged star safety Jesse Bates III ahead of Tuesday’s deadline. In 2022, Bates III helped lead the Bengals’ defense to its first Super Bowl appearance since 1988.
The Cleveland Browns have also tied up tight end David Njoku using the franchise tag.
But what exactly is a franchise tag?
Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Jesse bates III (30) celebrates an interception against the Los Angeles Rams in the second quarter.
What is an NFL franchise tag?
Every year, an NFL franchise has the option to exercise the franchise tag on one player. The tag…