The 2025 NFL franchise tag window opens today. Teams have until March 4 to place the exclusive franchise tag, non-exclusive franchise tag, or transition tag on impending free agents. It looks like there are a handful of legitimate candidates to get tagged this year.
Vikings QB Sam Darnold
While the wheels fell off a bit for the squad in the final two games, Sam Darnold just enjoyed a massive breakout campaign by throwing 35 touchdowns (12 interceptions) in an excellent situation with the Vikings. Given his blend of age (28 this summer) and experience (having been through ups and downs in the league), many see the former No. 3 pick as the top overall free agent this spring. Sports betting sites have the Raiders as the favorite to land Darnold, followed by the Steelers and then the incumbent Vikings. Ultimately, Minnesota using the tag could be a strategic move to go for draft pick compensation in a tag and trade—with not a ton of downside considering Darnold can again be the starter in 2025 after helping the team win 14 games if no trade comes to fruition.
Bengals WR Tee Higgins
If the Bengals and WR Tee Higgins do not agree to a long-term contract by the March 4 franchise tag deadline, the team is expected to tag the big-play receiver for the second consecutive year. Months ago, it appeared Cincy would tag Higgins once and then see what happens on the open market, but the pressure put on the organization by quarterback Joe Burrow might have changed things. Also, Higgins was a difference-maker with three touchdowns in a critical Week 17 win over the Broncos keeping the Bengals’ playoff hopes alive—and Denver happens to be a betting favorite to land Higgins if he leaves, so the Bengals saw how he can swing games.
Eagles LB Zack Baun
All-Pro and Defensive Player of the Year candidate Zack Baun was outstanding as an off-ball linebacker in Vic Fangio’s defense, capping his stellar campaign with an interception of Patrick Mahomes in Super Bowl LIX. Baun certainly wants to remain in Philadelphia, but there’s a chance he gets an offer that’s too good to refuse from another team if he hits the open market. Especially with Nakobe Dean coming off a serious knee injury, we’ll see if the Eagles decide to ensure Baun doesn’t leave, if necessary, by March 4.
Chiefs G Trey Smith
There were previously rumors that the Chiefs expect guard Trey Smith to leave during free agency, which would break up a top-tier offensive interior of Joe Thuney (who moved to left tackle down the stretch in 2024), Creed Humphrey, and Smith that’s helped Kansas City win two of the past three Super Bowls. However, the Chiefs might not want another moving part on the offensive line after what happened in the Big Game. There’s some work to do with the cap, but the team might like the idea of at least remaining strong up the middle and figuring out the tackle spots.
Dolphins S Jevon Holland
Similarly, cap issues could complicate the Dolphins’ ability to keep safety Jevon Holland, who would make nearly $20 million on a franchise tag in 2025. Miami already released veterans Raheem Mostert, Kendall Fuller, and Durham Smythe. Holland is entering his fifth NFL season and will be just 25 years old ahead of free agency, but the cap hit might be too much for Miami.