Randall Cobb Not Franchise-Tagged by Packers: Latest Details, Reaction

With Randall Cobb set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, there was some question as to whether or not the Green Bay Packers would use the franchise tag on him or re-sign him to a contract extension. The first option is now out the window, as the team elected not to use the franchise tag on its star wide receiver.  

Adam Schefter of ESPN has the report:

As Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel noted, the Packers haven't used a franchise or transition tag since 2010, so it isn't terribly surprising they didn't use one this year, either.

Silverstein also reported on the potential price range for Cobb's services:

"

The Packers may have set a ceiling of $10 million per year with Cobb since that is what veteran Jordy Nelson receives and they probably don't want to pay him more. Cobb appears to have a higher number than that. One source said the word going around at the NFL combine league personnel staff and executives was that his price was $12 million per year.

"

If the Packers are unable to re-sign him before March 10, Cobb will hit free agency and instantly become one of the most sought-after players on the market. Sam Monson of Pro Football Focus thinks Cobb is the receiver to target before the draft:

Cobb was excellent for the Packers in 2014, catching 91 passes on 127 targets for 1,287 yards and 12 touchdowns—all career highs and good enough to earn him his first career Pro Bowl berth. If he signs elsewhere in free agency, it would be a huge loss for the Packers.    

On the other hand, the team that brings him aboard will likely be paying a pretty penny but adding a versatile and explosive weapon in the passing game. It wouldn't be surprising to see a bidding war develop for his services, making the next few days key for the Packers if they wish to re-sign him and keep him away from free agency.