FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – The New England Patriots have placed the franchise tag on All-Pro offensive lineman Logan Mankins, who held out the first seven games of the 2010 season in a contract fight.
Mankins was the first NFL player hit with the franchise tag.
The move was first reported by ESPN.com.
Mankins would earn about $10 million under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement that expires in three weeks. It is not clear whether the franchise tag will be part of the new deal. The NFL players union has called the franchise tag "worthless."
Despite missing the first seven games, Mankins was selected to the Pro Bowl for the third time.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — The New England Patriots have reportedly placed the franchise tag on All-Pro offensive lineman Logan Mankins, who held out the first seven games of the 2010 season in a contract fight.
Mankins would be the first NFL player hit with the franchise tag.
The move was first reported by ESPN.com. Patriots spokesman Stacey James said the team could not confirm it.
Mankins would earn about $10 million under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement that expires in three weeks. It is not clear whether the franchise tag will be part of the new deal. The NFL players union has called the franchise tag "worthless."
Despite missing the first seven games, Mankins was selected to the Pro Bowl for the third time.
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