Franchise Tag
A Franchise Tag is a special contract tool used by professional sports teams, particularly in the NFL (National Football League), to keep their valuable players. Think of it like a "can't leave yet" card that teams can play once a year. When a team uses this on a player whose contract is ending, they get to keep that player for one more year at a high salary. It's similar to giving someone a temporary contract extension. This term often appears in sports management and front office job descriptions because it's an important part of managing team budgets and keeping star players.
Examples in Resumes
Managed contract negotiations including Franchise Tag designations for key players
Successfully implemented Franchise Tag strategy resulting in retention of Pro Bowl quarterback
Analyzed salary cap implications of Franchise Tag usage across multiple seasons
Typical job title: "Sports Contract Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Sports Contract Managers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Industry Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you evaluate whether to use a Franchise Tag on a player versus negotiating a long-term contract?
Expected Answer: Should discuss salary cap implications, player value assessment, team budget planning, and long-term roster strategy. Should mention considering market rates and potential impacts on team chemistry.
Q: What factors would you consider when managing multiple franchise tag candidates in the same year?
Expected Answer: Should explain prioritizing positions, evaluating player market values, considering salary cap space, and creating contingency plans for different scenarios.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Can you explain the different types of franchise tags and their implications?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain exclusive and non-exclusive franchise tags, transition tags, and how each affects player salary and team rights.
Q: How do you calculate the franchise tag amount for different positions?
Expected Answer: Should explain that it's based on the top salaries at the position or a percentage of the salary cap, depending on which is higher.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the basic purpose of a franchise tag?
Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a tool teams use to keep important players for an additional year when their contract expires.
Q: When during the year can a franchise tag be used?
Expected Answer: Should know the basic NFL calendar and that tags can only be applied during a specific window in the offseason.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of NFL contracts
- Knowledge of franchise tag deadlines
- Understanding of salary cap basics
- Familiarity with sports management software
Mid (2-5 years)
- Contract negotiation experience
- Salary cap management
- Player valuation analysis
- Understanding of NFL collective bargaining agreement
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced contract structuring
- Long-term salary cap planning
- Team budget management
- Strategic roster planning
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of NFL salary cap rules
- Unfamiliarity with contract deadlines and league calendar
- Lack of understanding of different franchise tag types
- No experience with sports contract management software
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Salary Transparency Laws: What HR Leaders Need to Know
Attracting top-tier talent in a highly competitive labor market
Employer Branding: Your Secret Weapon to Attract Top Talent in 2025
