Overview

• The NFL's 2025 franchise tag deadline officially passed at 4 p.m. EST on March 4, with several teams making critical roster decisions.
• The Kansas City Chiefs franchise-tagged guard Trey Smith, securing him for $23.4 million after his standout performance and the team's Super Bowl struggles on the offensive line.
• The Cincinnati Bengals placed the franchise tag on wide receiver Tee Higgins for a second consecutive year, costing $26.2 million, as they navigate long-term contract challenges.
• The Minnesota Vikings face uncertainty with quarterback Sam Darnold, who emerged as a top free-agent prospect after a breakout 2024 season, but was not tagged.
• The Chicago Bears, with $79.5 million in salary cap space, chose not to use the franchise tag, focusing instead on bolstering their offensive and defensive lines in free agency.