Why the Buffalo Bills Must Use Their Franchise Tag on Jairus Byrd

February 19, 2014   ·   Brandon Croce   ·   Jump to comments

The Buffalo Bills front office has a big challenge ahead of them over the next two weeks to sign Pro Bowl safety Jairus Byrd to a long-term contract. They were not able to come to terms last year but thanks to the franchise tag they have another chance this year.
The franchise tag did not sit well with Byrd as he held out for the majority of the offseason and signed the contract shortly before the start of the season. It is hard to believe the parties involved want to go through the offseason like last year, but what if the two sides are not able to reach an agreement on a long-term deal?
Can the Bills really afford to let Byrd walk away as a free agent this offseason?
The simple answer is: no.
If the Buffalo Bills are not able to reach a deal with Byrd, they will have no choice but to use the franchise tag on their starting safety for a second year in the row.
Financially, the Bills could make it work but it would really hinder any other moves they hope to mak...

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