Tuesday marks the opening of the NFL franchise tag window, which the Denver Broncos are unlikely to utilize — yet.
9NEWS' Mike Klis reports that Denver is "not expected to consider" tagging defensive end Dre'Mont Jones, an impending unrestricted free agent, until the March 7 deadline.
"Even then they may pass in hopes of working out deal by March 13-15 FA opener," added Klis. "Broncos love Dre’Mont. May not love tags of $18.94M DT; $19.73m DE."
A 2019 third-round pick, Jones is the only Bronco under consideration for the franchise designation, having totaled 76 solo tackles, 38 quarterback hits, and 22.0 sacks across 56 career games, including 29 starts. He led the team in tackles-for-loss (9) and sacks (6.5) last season despite finishing on injured reserve with a hip ailment.
As mentioned, Jones' tag would cost roughly $19.7 million for the 2023 campaign. The Broncos currently have $11.95 million of available salary cap space, per Spotrac.
On the open market, Jones, 26, is projected to garner a four-year, $68.53 million deal —$17.1 million in annual salary — which would make him the league's sixth-highest-paid DE.
"This figures to be down-to-deadline negotiation with Dre’Mont," Klis said. "He’s a very good player. It's 'We can’t afford that' vs 'we can’t afford to lose him' dilemma not decided til deadline pressure. Both sides."
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