This offseason there were seven NFL teams that used the franchise tag. So far four of those players, Chandler Jones (Cardinals), Kawann Short (Panthers), Melvin Ingram (Chargers), and Jason Pierre Paul (Giants) have signed long-term deals. This has left Trumaine Johnson of the Los Angeles Rams, Kirk Cousins of the Washington Redskins and Le'Von Bell of the Pittsburgh Steelers still searching for long-term commitment. There are about three weeks before the July 17th deadline, so what is the current status of there negotiations?
No long-term deal for Johnson?
For the second consecutive offseason the Los Angeles Rams have franchise tagged top cornerback Trumaine Johnson. Since he was tagged two years in a row, Johnson gets 120% of his 2016 salary, making his franchise tag price $16.7 million. Johnson is the first cornerback to be franchise tagged back-to-back years since Charles Woodson in 2004 and 2005.
Any deal for a long-term contract seems to be in an impasse, especially after rumors were everywhere about the team trying to trade him. Sources have told ESPN's Adam Schefter that the Rams and Johnson are not even close to anything and that they will not reach any long-term deal before the deadline.
Deep issues with Cousins negotiations
Washington Redskins Pro Bowl quarterback Kirk Cousins has also been franchise tagged for a second straight season. His tag will cost the Redskins $23.9 million this upcoming season if a deal is not reached. There has been an improved tone in talks between the two sides in recent weeks, but sources told Schefter that the chances of a long-term deal happening are slim as of now.
However, other sources have told ESPN's Dianna Russini that there are deeper issues between the two sides and that no price would make Cousins happy.
Motivation, but not deal for Bell
Lastly, there is Pittsburgh Steelers star running back Le'Veon Bell. By being franchise tagged the Steelers would have to pay Bell $12.1 million next season if a deal is not reached.
In recent weeks there has been virtually no discussion between the two sides on a long-term deal. It is believed that any deal in Bell's case will come right up against the July 17th deadline.
Both the Steelers and Bell are motivated to get a deal done, but coming up on the deadline will be the push required to get talks going. Unlike Cousins or Johnson, Bell has not signed his franchise tender and has not participated at the Steelers mandatory minicamp.
