The Dallas Cowboys have used the franchise tag five times in their history.
Tackle Flozell Adams was tagged in 2002. Safety Ken Hamlin was tagged in 2000. Linebacker Anthony Spencer was tagged in 2012 and 2013. And receiver Dez Bryant was tagged in 2015.
The Cowboys eventually worked a out a long-term deal with Bryant before the start of the season.
And it’s that pattern they hope to follow with defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence as franchise tag season begins around the NFL on Tuesday.
Teams can begin to use the franchise or transition tags on February 20, and must make their designations by March 6.