Packers NT Pickett could be the next to receiver franchise tag

The first two players to receiver franchise tags of this season have been two nose tackles: the New England Patriots Vince Wilfork and San Francisco 49ers Aubrayo Franklin. And the third one would be very likely to be also a nose tackle: Green Bay Packers NT Ryan Pickett and other teams could also follow the first three teams to use franchise tag for nose tackles.

According recent reports, the Packers could use the franchise tag on Pickett before the Thursday deadline for it as the negotiation about a long-term extension is still going on. A franchise tag will cost the Packers $7.003 million for having Pickett play football in Packers jerseys in 2010 season but will allow them to take time to consider Pickett’s demands for the contract extension.

Other reports have said that the Pittsburgh Steelers will also use franchise tag to retain their nose tackle Casey Hampton if contract negation does not go well by Thursday. And it is expected more teams will use the franchise tag along with the threat of a work stoppage in 2011 to retain their valuable players. If there is no football in 2011, the $7 million pay for franchise tag will be the only money an NFL player could earn in two years.