Niners Nation
There aren’t any options that make sense for the 49ers this offseason when it comes to using the franchise tag
A powerful negotiation tactic for organizations is utilizing the “franchise tag” for qualifying players seeking a long-term deal. Positional value changes for each player, but for the most part, it’s a one-year deal for significant money, which delays the negotiation another year.
Under John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan, the 49ers have used the franchise tag once, and it was for kicker Robbie Gould. Past 49ers to get tagged include Steve Young (1993), Terrell Owens (1999), Julian Peterson (2004-05), Aubrayo Franklin (2010), and Dashon Goldson (2012).
Will the 49ers use the franchise tag in 2025? From February 18th to March 4th, teams can place one of three tags on a single player. However, Pro Football Focus predicts the 49ers will pass on using the franchise tag this offseason.
The 49ers are facing expiring contracts for several key contributors in Charvarius Ward, Dre Greenlaw, and Talanoa Hufanga — all of whom rank in the top 25 of PFF’s top free agents list. Of the three, Ward has the most proven body of work, but on-field struggles in 2024 may create some hesitancy to offer him a significant one-year deal under the tag.
Of the three candidates, Greenlaw is the most deserving of the tag. However, the team can work on a one-year, prove-it deal instead of allowing the linebacker to walk and sign a long-term deal elsewhere. In this instance, the 49ers won’t use the tag.
Hufanga and Ward have a higher chance of being on the move, but considering Ward’s comments about his family and their tragedy in San Francisco, he’s surely on the move. Hufanga proved his worth in his return to the defense as instant energy while sporting a club cast. Still, the former All-Pro should have a significant market.
The 49ers have tough decisions to make regarding their free agents. The franchise tag is a valuable negotiation tool, but don’t expect the organization to utilize it.
