Baltimore Ravens Place Franchise Tag on Star RB Ray Rice

UPDATE: By Michael Dixon. Friday, March 2nd at 1:33 p.m. EST

Garrett Downing reported via the Ravens website that the franchise tag has officially been given to Rice. 

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The Ravens applied the franchise tag to Rice on Friday, which will keep him from becoming an unrestricted free agent and pay him about $7.7 million as part of the one-year deal. His four-year rookie contract was set to expire in March.

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The Baltimore Ravens are prepared to use their franchise tag on All-Pro running back Ray Rice as soon as Friday, according to Aaron Wilson of the Carroll County Times.

Unlike most players who get the franchise tag, Rice doesn't seem too upset about it. The report says that he has been expecting it for awhile now. 

What It Means?

This was an obvious move for the Ravens to make. Rice is just 25 years old, coming off the best year of his career—1,364 rushing yards and 15 total touchdowns. He was their best weapon on offense, and opens up so many things for the players around him. 

Rice is going to make $7.7 million under the terms of the franchise tag, but he can still negotiate a long-term deal with the team. 

His presence in the backfield has made life easier for quarterback Joe Flacco. The offense has averaged over 383 total points since the start of the 2009 season, and Rice has started all 48 regular season games during that time. 

What Happens Next?

For the Ravens, they get to keep their best offensive weapon. With Ricky Williams retiring, they need to find more depth at the running back position. Rice is a workhorse, but they need someone who can spell him from time to time. 

Rice will look for a deal that will provide him with long-term security, and the Ravens will no doubt keep the lines of communication open. The report points out that the team has had success negotiating with players after putting the tag on them--Chris McAlister, Terrell Suggs and Haloti Ngata. 

Long-term contract or not, the Ravens and their fans can take comfort in knowing that Rice will be part of the organization for at least one more year. 

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