The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have placed their franchise tag on edge rusher Shaquil Barrett, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The decision is finalized less than four hours before Barrett was scheduled to hit the free agency negotiation period. Teams have until 11:59 a.m. to use their franchise or transition tags.
Barrett had a career year, accruing 19.5 sacks in his first year with the Bucs. The Broncos did not re-sign him last year after four seasons and Barrett signed a one-year deal with Tampa Bay. Prior to 2019, Barrett had 14 total sacks, so it is no surprise NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo tweeted that Barrett is likely to play this season on the tag to prove he’s not a one-year wonder.
Barrett finished the 2019 season leading the NFL in sacks. Pro Football Focus ranked Barrett 16th in their pass rush productivity stat. He finished fifth in QB hits and 12th in hurries.
The Bucs likely will now see Jameis Winston walk as they will not be using a tag on their one-time No. 1 overall pick.