Starting Tuesday, NFL teams officially enter franchise tag territory - that two-week window where clubs can lock down key players before they hit the open market. But don’t expect the New England Patriots to make much noise here. Despite having the cap space to do it, the Patriots are unlikely to use the franchise or transition tag on any of their pending unrestricted free agents this year.
And when you look at the names set to hit the market, the reasoning becomes clear. Defensive tackle Khyiris Tonga, edge rusher K’Lavon Chaisson, and safety Jaylinn Hawkins all played meaningful roles during New England’s 2025 Super Bowl run. But when it comes to weighing their production against projected tag values, the math just doesn’t add up.
According to Over the Cap’s projections, the franchise tag would cost New England roughly $26.3 million to retain Tonga, $27.3 million for Chaisson, and $20.9 million for Hawkins. Those are hefty numbers - especially for players who, while important, don’t quite command that kind of financial commitment. Of the trio, Chaisson likely has the strongest case, but even his expected market value falls short of the tag figure.
It’s not just those three, either. Other free agents like tight end Austin Hooper and offensive tackles Thayer Munford Jr. and Vederian Lowe are also unlikely candidates. None are expected to command a deal that would justify the one-year, fully guaranteed tag price.
So, for the second straight offseason, the Patriots look poised to sit out the tag game. But that doesn’t mean they’ll be passive observers. In fact, this is where things get interesting.
As other teams make their decisions, New England’s front office will be watching closely. The tag deadline - March 3 at 4 p.m.
ET - will shape the free agent landscape. And if certain players slip through without being tagged, the Patriots could be ready to pounce.
Among the names to watch: Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce, Cowboys wideout George Pickens, Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts, Bengals edge Trey Hendrickson, and Chargers pass rusher Odafe Oweh. Each brings a skill set that could fill a need in Foxborough, whether it’s adding explosiveness to the passing game or bolstering the pass rush.
There’s no guarantee any of them reach the open market, but if they do, New England could be one of the first teams in line.
So while the Patriots may not be handing out tags this year, don’t mistake that for inactivity. The real action - the kind that could shape their 2026 roster - might just be getting started.