Seahawks use franchise tag on Frank Clark

In a move that had been rumored for some time, the Seattle Seahawks have apparently used their franchise tag on star defensive end Frank Clark, who’s coming off a career-high 13 sacks in 2018.

While the goal is still to work on a long-term deal, which can be negotiated until July 15th, this decision keeps Clark on the roster into the 2019 season. Clark has quickly become one of the most important members of a rebuilding Seahawks defense, and now he’ll be set to receive more than $17 million next season.

It’s the first time that Seattle has used the franchise tag since 2010, when John Schneider retained kicker Olindo Mare. Truth be told, I had no recollection that the Seahawks had actually done this, but it’s true! In the grand scheme of the market for pass rushers, Clark becomes the latest big name who won’t be available when free agency starts next week. The Houston Texans placed the franchise tag on Jadeveon Clowney, likewise for DeMarcus Lawrence of the Dallas Cowboys, while the Philadelphia Eagles re-signed Brandon Graham to a 3-year, $40 million deal.