Cowboys to put franchise tag on Lawrence

The Dallas Cowboys are putting the franchise tag on pass-rusher DeMarcus Lawrence for the second consecutive season, the team announced Monday. The Cowboys and Lawrence have been talking about a long-term deal, but the sides were "not close," according to multiple reports Sunday.

Dallas tagged Lawrence last season when he made $17.1 million. He would earn $20.5 million under the franchise tag in 2019. Lawrence, 26, has been clear in his desire not to play under the franchise tag, setting up a potentially contentious offseason. The deadline to sign a player to a multi-year deal after a franchise tag is July 15.

Lawrence is reportedly seeking a multi-year deal worth upward of that $20.5 million tag amount. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported that if he does not receive an extension, he likely will skip the offseason program, minicamps, and perhaps training camp and some regular-season games. He also could delay the shoulder surgery he needs. In the past two seasons, Lawrence has a combined 25 sacks, 49 quarterback hits and 122 tackles. The Cowboys selected the Boise State product in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft.

 

(With inputs from agencies.)