:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45806214/usa-today-8325992.0.jpg)
Note: Click any headline to read more information from that player's respective SB Nation blog.
Demaryius Thomas, Denver Broncos, wide receiver
Thomas will cost the Broncos over $12 million in 2015, making him the third-highest paid wide receiver in the NFL this season. It would have been nice to see him in free agency, but I still think Randall Cobb is the most viable candidate at receiver to sign with the Jaguars next week.
Justin Houston, Kansas City Chiefs, linebacker
There wasn't much of a chance the Jaguars went after -- much less landed -- Houston, and even less of a chance the Chiefs didn't use the franchise tag on him. He's one of top two or three defensive talents in the league and even a franchise salary will command less than he'd get on the open market.
Dez Bryant, Dallas Cowboys, wide receiver
Aside from Houston, Bryant was the most likely to get the franchise tag. His only competition, DeMarco Murray, will hit free agency while the Cowboys use the few months they've bought trying to get the star receiver on a long-term deal.
Jason Pierre-Paul, New York Giants, defensive end
One of the best pass rushers in the league and the most plausible Giants player to receive the franchise tag. Dang it.
Stephen Gostkowski, New England Patriots, kicker
In my opinion, the most interesting franchise tag of the day. I think McCourty will get a lot of offers thrown his way (including the Jaguars) and I also think the Patriots believe they can re-sign McCourty for less than he'll command. We'll see.
Charles Clay, Miami Dolphins, tight end
It's important to note that Clay received the Dolphins' transition tag, not the franchise tag. That doesn't mean he can't sign somewhere else, it just means Miami has first right of refusal on any other club signing him. (Think Alex Mack last year.) I think the Jaguars make a play for him next week.