The Washington Redskins placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on guard Brandon Scherff on Saturday, a contract worth one-year, $16 million if the 28-year-old signs it.
The Redskins and Scherff still would like to work out a long term contract, but the move gives Washington more time to work out a deal as Scherff would have been free to sign elsewhere next week if gone untagged. The deadline to sign players on the franchise tag to a long-term contract is July.
Scherff, meanwhile, can still negotiate with other teams when free agency begins next week, though any team that signs the Pro Bowler would have to give the Redskins two first round picks. The Redskins now also have the right to match any deal Scherff signs.
The Redskins view Scherff as a core player and a staple among their offensive line. Since drafted fifth overall in 2015, the Iowa product has made three Pro Bowls.
Washington had used used the franchise tag on a player since Kirk Cousins in 2017.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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