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NFL franchise tag candidates and 2021 predictions: Dak Prescott, Aaron Jones top list of 22 players

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott, Green Bay Packers running back Aaron Jones and Los Angeles Chargers tight end Hunter Henry are targets for the NFL franchise-tag designation entering the 2021 season.

Prior to NFL free agency starting March 17, each of the 32 teams must evaluate whether they will place a franchise tag on veteran players to keep them off the open market.

The franchise tag is a labor designation that restricts a player's potential movement in exchange for a high one-year salary. Each team can put the franchise tag on one pending free agent, a decision that is pricey but also provides leverage against losing a player, ensuring the team a large return if that player ultimately departs the club.