The NFL offseason has officially commenced, and while the new league year won't officially kick off until March 12, teams are already preparing for a critical period. Starting from Tuesday, organizations can now designate players with the franchise tag, a strategic move that affects contract negotiations and team rosters. This window will remain open until March 4 at 4 p.m. ET, providing teams with just over a week to make important decisions. The process involves complex financial considerations and strategic planning, as tagged players come with significant salary implications and potential draft pick compensation.

With the franchise tag now available, each of the 32 NFL teams has the opportunity to retain one of their soon-to-be free agents through a fully guaranteed one-year tender. The value of this tender is determined by either the average of the top five salaries at the player's position or 120% of the player's most recent salary, whichever amount is higher. This mechanism allows teams to protect their key assets but also opens up possibilities for negotiations with other clubs. If a tagged player receives an offer from another team, the original organization has the right to match it. Should they choose not to, the acquiring team must forfeit two first-round draft picks, adding another layer of complexity to the decision-making process.

Beyond the franchise tag, teams also have the option to apply a transition tag, which functions similarly but without the draft pick compensation requirement. This alternative allows for more flexibility in negotiations but does not provide the same level of protection for the original team. As the deadline approaches, fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to see how teams utilize these tools to shape their rosters for the upcoming season.

In the coming days, the NFL landscape may see significant changes as teams weigh their options and make crucial decisions. The franchise tag window serves as a pivotal moment in the offseason, setting the stage for what promises to be an eventful free agency period. Fans can expect updates and analysis as teams navigate this critical phase, shaping the future of their franchises.