Early on Tuesday, it was reported that the New York Giants intended to place the franchise tag on defensive lineman Leonard Williams pending the sudden agreement on a new contract.
Although a long-term deal continues to be discussed, the NFL’s tag deadline arrived before the two sides could strike a deal. Accordingly, the Giants have officially opted to tag Williams as a placeholder, reports NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
The #Giants have officially tagged Leonard Williams, source said.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2021
There had been a possibility that the tag deadline would be pushed back with the salary cap somewhat uncertain, but with mere hours remaining, it’s full-steam ahead for the NFL. Now the only question that remains is how Williams will be labeled: defensive tackle or defensive end.
Williams continues to await the conclusion of his NFLPA grievances over position. He seeks to be labeled a defensive end as opposed to defensive tackle, which would boost his franchise salary from $19.36 million to $21.4 million for the 2021 season.
Until that is settled, the tag is for $19.36 million.
In the interim, the Giants keep Williams in East Rutherford for at least another year as they work to hammer out a new deal. And it remains likely the two sides will eventually reach an agreement as Williams wants a long-term commitment and the Giants can ill afford to keep him on the books at the franchise value.
In 2020, Williams put together a career-best season, recording 57 tackles (14 for a loss), 30 QB hits and 11.5 sacks. He led the Giants with a Pro Football Focus grade of 79.8.
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