Jaguars free agency: 3 potential candidates for the franchise tag in 2023

1. Jacksonville Jaguars candidate for the franchise tag: Evan Engram, TE

Signing Evan Engram last offseason didn’t look like a good move. After all, the former Ole Miss Rebel made the Pro Bowl in 2020 but had also struggled with drops and mental mistakes throughout his tenure with the New York Giants. In the end, this turned out to be one of the Jaguars’ best free-agency additions, which is why general manager Trent Baalke is retroactively getting plenty of love.

A first-round pick by the Giants in 2017, Engram had never had more than 70 catches in a season and he had scored four touchdowns or more just once in his NFL career. However, he went on to post career highs for both receptions and passing yards. Similarly, he broke the Jags’ records for receiving yards by a tight end in a game, receptions by a tight end in a season, and receiving yards by a tight end in a season.

Given how much he improved in 2022, Engram should have his fair share of suitors if he hits the open market. Then again, he’s already said that he wants to return to Jacksonville after having the best year of his life. Head coach Doug Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke have already made it clear they want him back, so it looks like there’s mutual interest.

On the other hand, Engram Engram will most likely be seeking top-market compensation. In order to keep him for at least one more year, the Jags shouldn’t rule out applying the franchise tag.

Chances of getting the franchise tag: 50 percent