Bucs' Shaq Barrett Files Grievance to Be Designated DE on Franchise Tag Contract

Shaquil Barrett is seeking to be designated as a defensive end on his franchise tag with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 

Drew Rosenhaus, Barrett's agent, told ESPN's Adam Schefter his client has accepted the one-year franchise tender but filed a grievance with the NFL Players Association to be listed as a defensive end instead of linebacker. 

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler added that Barrett and the Bucs are still discussing a long-term deal before the July 15 deadline. 

Per Over the Cap, the 2020 franchise tag value for defensive ends is $17.788 million and $15.828 million for linebackers. 

The Bucs announced March 16 they were using their franchise tag on Barrett after he recorded an NFL-high 19.5 sacks last year. 

Per NFL.com's Nick Shook, Barrett lined up as a pass-rusher for 508 out of his 836 total snaps in 2019. That doesn't necessarily mean he was at defensive end, particularly since defensive coordinator Todd Bowles tends to favor a 3-4 scheme. 

Last season was Barrett's first year with the Buccaneers. His 19.5 sacks were 5.5 more than he had in the previous five years combined with the Denver Broncos.