The Baltimore Ravens aren't allowing Justin Madubuike to hit the open market.
Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta told reporters the team will use its franchise tag on Madubuike if no long-term deal can be reached by the March 5 tagging deadline.
"We're trying to get a deal done," DeCosta said. "We've had discussions with Justin. He's a guy that has obviously put himself in a fortuitous position this year by the way that he played. Had a great season for us, he's a valued player on the team and we're hopeful we can get a long-term deal done.