NFL executives like to say that deadlines make deals. But not in the case of Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence.
At least not yet.
The Cowboys plan to place their franchise tag on Lawrence before the 3 p.m. Tuesday deadline to ensure that their top pass-rusher won't be going anywhere once free agency opens March 14. A source said Monday afternoon that the two sides aren't close on finalizing a long-term deal for Lawrence.
If the Cowboys stick with the tag on Lawrence, he'll play 2018 under a one-year deal for about $17.5 million that's fully guaranteed and goes against the salary cap.