NFL Rumors: Why Dwayne Bowe Needs to Accept Franchise Tag

Dwayne Bowe claims he likes the moves the Kansas City Chiefs have made this offseason. If that's true, he needs to accept the franchise tag and refuse the urge to hold out this season.

Bowe told Josh Looney at KCCheifs.com that he was happy with the additions the Chiefs made during the free agency. But the Pro Bowl wideout stopped short of announcing his intention to join his teammates at offseason workouts. 

Kansas City has until July 16 to lock its most dynamic offensive weapon up with a long-term contract. If that date passes, Bowe will play the 2012 season under the franchise tag and will be an unrestricted free agent after the season.

If Bowe is really excited about the talent being added in Kansas City, he needs to get on board and get involved with his teammates, rather than take the stance of a holdout.

With the addition of offensive tackle Eric Winston, tight end Kevin Boss and running back Peyton Hillis, the Chiefs should have a much better offense next season. But that will only happen if Bowe is playing. 

The Chiefs want to lock up their top receiver to a long-term deal, and Bowe seems to want to stay with the team. If both of those things are true, a deal will eventually get done, even if it comes during the 2012 season. 

Bowe needs to get on board with what is going on in Kansas City because he is a big part of the team's plans. While holding out may give him leverage in contract talks, it will also hurt his relationship with the team. 

If both parties want an extension to get done, it will get done eventually. Bowe shouldn't hold out if he wants to remain in Kansas City.