Chicago Bears Could Use Franchise Tag in an Unexpected Way
With the NFL offseason in full swing, the Chicago Bears are exploring all options to maximize their roster flexibility—potentially utilizing the franchise tag in a way that catches many by surprise. While the tag is typically used to retain star players on expiring contracts, reports suggest that the Bears could employ it as a strategic asset rather than a straightforward retention tool.
Unconventional Franchise Tag Strategy
The Bears hold the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, positioning them to select a franchise quarterback—potentially USC’s Caleb Williams. Given that, speculation has surrounded the future of current starting quarterback Justin Fields, who remains under contract but has been the subject of trade discussions.
However, instead of using the franchise tag on a pending free agent as most teams do, the Bears could place it on a player with the intention of trading him. This approach would allow Chicago to gain additional draft capital or assets in return. One name that has surfaced in such discussions is star cornerback Jaylon Johnson, whose contract negotiations have stalled in recent months.
Jaylon Johnson: Tag-and-Trade Candidate?
Johnson, who emerged as one of the league’s top cornerbacks in 2024, is set to hit free agency. The Bears attempted to reach a long-term agreement during the season but failed to do so, leading to speculation that they could franchise tag him and seek a trade. This move would ensure Chicago gets compensation rather than losing him outright.
Using the franchise tag in a tag-and-trade scenario is uncommon but not unprecedented. The Kansas City Chiefs executed a similar move with pass rusher Dee Ford in 2019, tagging him before trading him to the San Francisco 49ers for a second-round pick.
If the Bears decide to tag Johnson, it could set off a bidding war among cornerback-needy teams looking for an elite defensive back. Chicago could then recoup valuable draft picks to bolster their roster around their future quarterback.
Could the Bears Franchise Tag Darnell Mooney?
Another potential candidate for the franchise tag is wide receiver Darnell Mooney, though the likelihood of this move is lower. Mooney has been a solid contributor but struggled with consistency in recent seasons. If the Bears believe they can extract trade value from tagging him, it could be another unexpected play.
However, given the presence of DJ Moore and the possibility of adding more receiving talent in free agency or the draft, tagging Mooney might be less beneficial.
What’s Next for Chicago?
General manager Ryan Poles has shown a willingness to be aggressive in roster construction, and using the franchise tag as a trade tool would align with that approach. Whether the Bears ultimately apply the tag to Johnson, Mooney, or another player remains to be seen, but the possibility of a non-traditional use of the tag adds intrigue to an already pivotal offseason in Chicago.
With the March 5 franchise tag deadline approaching, the NFL world will be watching closely to see if the Bears make a surprising move.
