Defensive Tackle Equals Franchise Tag | 2010 NFL Free Agency

Is it just the sign of the times or are NFL teams happy with paying their valuable nose tackles seven million dollars for a one year contract? In recent days four teams have either placed their starting nose tackle (Patriots, 49ers) with the franchise tag or are expected to (Steelers, Packers) soon.

No doubt any defense has to have a strong defense up front in order to be successful. This is even truer  when it comes to a 3/4 style defense because you are dependent on one less man upfront to get the job done. Not only do you need bigger defensive ends, but it is crucially important to have a nose tackle that can plug up the middle.

It is because of this importance that Casey Hampton (Steelers), Ryan Pickett (Packers), Vince Wilfork (Patriots) and Aubrayo Franklin (49ers) are all going to make around seven million dollars for the 2010 season. Not only will these players get at least that for next year but just about all of them are expected to be in contract talks for long term deals with their current franchise.

Plugging The Gaps

All four of these teams either had great success a year ago or in recent years. Outside of the Steelers (12th overall) each of the other three defenses finished either 6th or better in points given up as a group in the NFL.

While Franklin of the 49ers has to be the least known tackle of the four, his team was a sparkling 6th best against the run and was 4th best in points given up.

True, the 49ers do play the Rams, Seahawks and Cardinals but still anytime you finish in the top six in the league your doing very well.

2010 Fantasy Radar

Because of the success, these teams have had and the fact that they all seem committed to keeping their players intact,  I fully expect them all to have success in 2010.  Depending on how your fantasy league scores defensive points you may or may not draft a defense until the final rounds.

No matter where your league tends to select defenses, I would give serious consideration to all four of these defenses come draft day.

NFL fantasy football player rankings writer Sean E. Douglas: fantasy-info.com