The NFL has officially released the franchise and transition tag values for 2025, setting the stage for a high-stakes offseason filled with tough financial decisions. Every year, these tag values determine how much teams must pay to retain top talent for a short-term deal, often leading to tense negotiations and dramatic contract standoffs. With salary cap projections rising and star players seeking long-term security, the newly revealed numbers could force some teams into difficult choices. For certain franchises, the cost of keeping key players may be higher than expected, potentially leading to blockbuster trades or surprising departures.

One of the biggest storylines surrounding the 2025 tag values will be how they impact the league’s biggest pending free agents. Quarterbacks, pass rushers, and wide receivers often command the highest franchise tag figures, and this year is no different. With several elite players due for new deals, teams must decide whether to invest heavily in a one-year tag or negotiate a long-term extension. The pressure is now on front offices to balance financial flexibility with roster stability, knowing that an improperly handled tag decision could cause tension between players and management.

For some players, receiving the franchise tag is a blessing—a guaranteed top-tier salary for one season. However, others see it as a roadblock to securing long-term financial security, as teams often use it as a temporary solution instead of committing to a multi-year deal. In recent years, star players have openly resisted being tagged, sometimes holding out or demanding trades to avoid playing under the short-term agreement. With the 2025 values now set, expect to see contract disputes, trade rumors, and intense negotiations as teams and players navigate this complex system.

As teams begin to strategize around these numbers, the NFL landscape could shift dramatically over the coming months. Some franchises may find creative ways to manipulate the salary cap, while others might be forced to part ways with key contributors. The battle between teams trying to maintain control and players fighting for their worth will define the offseason drama. With the 2025 franchise and transition tag values now in place, the countdown to the next wave of blockbuster moves has officially begun.

The Chiefs informed guard Trey Smith this week that they’ll be using their franchise tag on him and we learned on Friday what salary that tag will carry.

The NFL informed teams of the franchise and transition tag values for offensive linemen and every other position. Smith will make $23.402 million if he plays out the season under the terms of the tag, but there’s a long way to go before the July 15 deadline to come to an agreement on a long-term deal.

Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins may also be getting a tag. That tag will carry a salary of $23.959 million.

The full list of tag numbers can be found below:

Quarterback: $40.242 million (franchise); $35.377 million (transition).
Running back: $13.64 million (franchise); $11.067 million (transition).
Wide receiver: $23.959 million (franchise); $21.441 million (transition).
Tight end: $13.826 million (franchise); $11.712 million (transition).
Offensive line: $23.402 million (franchise); $21.271 million (transition).
Defensive end: $22.062 million (franchise); $19.872 million (transition).
Defensive tackle: $25.123 million (franchise); $20.849 million (transition).
Linebacker: $25.452 million (franchise); $20.862 million (transition).
Cornerback: $20.187 million (franchise); $17.595 million (transition).
Safety: $18.601 million (franchise); $15.027 million (transition).
Kicker/Punter: $6.313 million (franchise); $5.73 million (transition).