Who got tagged and who got tendered? Let's take a look at some IDP players who fit this criteria after the franchise tag deadline passed.
The NFL free agency period is less than a week away and it's set to be a wild one. The franchise tag deadline has passed and key decisions were made on both sides of ball. In this article, I'm going to highlight the IDP relevant names who were tagged and a couple who were tendered. Without further ado, let's dive in!
Leonard Williams, DL, NYG - Franchise Tag
2020 Stats: 57 tackles (29 solos), 14 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks, 30 QB hits, 1 fumble recovery
For the second straight year, the New York Giants are placing the franchise tag on Leonard Williams. Williams had a monster 2020 season setting career highs in sacks (11.5), tackles for loss (14) and quarterback hits (30). Using the tag again makes a ton of sense as Williams is the most valuable piece along the Giants current defensive line. They can now hopefully start to work out a long term deal with Williams as he is a key piece to build their defense around. Williams' position classification is up for debate with how he’s used along the Giants front. In IDP DL grouped formats, I have Williams ranked as a DL2 option coming off his big year.
Justin Simmons, S, DENÂ - Franchise Tag
2020 Stats: 96 tackles (77 solo), 3 tackles for loss, 5 interceptions, 9 passes defended, 1 fumble recovery
Justin Simmons is a player that just doesn't get enough attention in my book. He’s been fantastic for the Broncos defense and has started and played in every game over the last three seasons. In that three year span, Simmons has eclipsed the 90+ tackle mark each year and collected an impressive 28 passes defended and 12 interceptions. Denver HAD to tag Simmons again (2nd straight year) and now they need to get him locked into a long term deal as he’s so important to their defense. With Simmons staying put, I expect him to continue to be a very valuable IDP asset and have him ranked as a DB1.
Marcus Maye, S, NYJ - Franchise Tag
2020 Stats: 88 tackles (52 solo), 4 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 2 interceptions, 11 passes defended, 2 QB hits, 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery
After the Jets traded away star safety Jamal Adams, Marcus Maye stepped up for their defense and had a career year. He set career highs in tackles (88), tackles for loss (4), sacks (2), and passes defended (11). Not only was he a key player for the Jets, but Maye was also very productive for IDP managers. He started off the year with a bang, and while he slowed down a bit after the first few weeks, Maye finished the year on a solid note. Bringing back Maye was the right move for the Jets as their defense will now have a solid duo of Maye and second-year man Ashtyn Davis at safety. IDP wise, I expect Maye to be in the DB2/3 range once again.
Marcus Williams, S, NO - Franchise Tag
2020 Stats: 59 tackles (39 solos), 3 interceptions, 7 passes defended
This one was a bit of a surprise. It’s not that Williams hasn’t been a contributing piece to the Saints defense, I just don’t think anyone saw them using the tag on him. There’s not much to write about from an IDP stand point on Williams. He’s not a highly productive safety option in IDP and should only be rostered in the deepest of leagues.
Alex Singleton, LB, PHI - Tendered
2020 Stats: 120 tackles (75 solos), 5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 1 interception, 1 pass defended, 7 QB hits, 2 fumble recoveries
Tendering Singleton just makes way too much sense. Singleton was a welcome presence in Philadelphia’s lackluster linebacker unit as Nate Gerry wasn’t cutting it. Once Singleton seized the starting job, he never looked back. He went on to lead the team with 120 tackles (75 solos) and was an absolute waiver wire darling for IDP managers this year. With Singleton tendered, it’s appears he'll be back in Philly which is good for his IDP value. I’d be delighted with Singleton in the mix as my LB3.
Alexander Johnson, LB, DEN - Tender Expected
*Denver GM George Paton has said he plans to tender Johnson
2020 Stats: 124 tackles (72 solos), 4 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 5 QB hits, 2 passes defended, 2 forced fumbles
Alexander Johnson emerged onto the scene in 2019 making 12 starts and producing 93 tackles (51 solos) for Denver. This past year, Johnson was once again a crucial part of Denver’s defense as he started all 16 games, played 98% of the defensive snaps, and led the team with 124 tackles (72 solos). Tendering and bringing Johnson back would be a good move that gives stability to their linebacker unit. There are rumblings Denver wants to look at adding to the group so that’s something to monitor. I also expect second-year man Justin Strnad who missed last year (injury) to be involved. Strnad brings coverage capabilities to a group that is lacking in that area. That being said, if Johnson returns to his previous role he will again be a productive option for IDP.
Conclusion
There ended up being only a handful of defenders who received the tag this year before the deadline. However, there is plenty to watch for when free agency hits next week. There are some big names set to hit the market right now (Shaquil Barrett, John Johnson, Jayon Brown to name a few) and it's going to be exciting to follow. As a fellow IDP degenerate, I can't wait to see where these talented defenders land. Thanks for tuning in and get the popcorn ready for free agency!
