The NFL today released the franchise-tag numbers for the 2011 season, even though the use of the franchise tag is one of the things being disputed by players in the ongoing labor squabble.
Here are the numbers:
Quarterbacks: $16 million ($16.4 million in 2010)
Running backs: $9.5 million ($8.15 million in 2010)
Wide receivers: $11.3 million ($9.5 million in 2010)
Tight ends: $7.3 million ($5.9 million in 2010)
Offensive linemen: $10.1 million ($10.7 million in 2010)
Defensive ends: $12.9 million ($12.4 million in 2010)
Defensive tackles: $12.5 million ($7 million in 2010)
Linebackers: $10 million ($9.7 million in 2010)
Cornerbacks: $14 million ($9.6 million in 2010)
Safeties: $8.8 million ($6.5 million in 2010)
Kickers: $3.1 million ($2.8 million in 2010)
Per NFL.com, franchise-tag amounts are based on the top-five salaries at each position. In the case of those players already paid top-five money, teams must tag at 120 percent of the prior year's salary, if that figure is greater than the franchise amount.
So, which New York Giants or New York Jets should the respective teams consider using the franchise tag on?
If the Giants use the tag it most likely would be applied to running back Ahmad Bradshaw or defensive tackle Barry Cofield.
The Jets might think about franchising linebacker David Harris, cornerback Antonio Cromartie or one of their free-agent wide receivers, Braylon Edwards or Santonio Holmes.
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