OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- The Baltimore Ravens placed the franchise tag on defensive tackle Justin Madubuike on Tuesday, which keeps their sacks leader from last season from reaching free agency.
It was expected that Baltimore would use the franchise tag, which is worth $22,110,200 for defensive tackles this season. A week ago, Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said the team would probably use the tag if the sides couldn't reach an extension before Tuesday's deadline to designate franchise players.
"Justin is a great player and person, and we will continue to negotiate a long-term deal with him," Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said in a statement.