Definition of Transition Tag

What does the term "transition tag" mean in the world of the NFL? What is meant by a "transition tag"?

There are three types of tags - the non-exclusive franchise tag, the exclusive franchise tag and the transition tag.

The major differences between the three tags revolve around compensation for the player, negotiating rights and compensation for the team if the player is signed away.





With a transition tag, the team will be obligated to pay the player the average of the top 10 salaries at the player's position on a one-year tender. The non-exclusive and exclusive franchise tags both pay the average of the top 5 salaries at the player's position.

With a transition tag, the player has the right to negotiate with another club. This is the case with the non-exclusive franchise tag as well, but not with the exclusive franchise tag, where players are not allowed to negotiate with another team.

With a transition tag, the team is not entitled to any compensation if they choose not to match a deal offered by another team.

The transition tag is used sparingly in the NFL as it puts the team in a compromising position, as they have little leverage due to the fact that the player can negotiate with another team and the team will receive no compensation if they choose not to match the offer.

As is the case with both the exclusive and non-exclusive tags, the salary for a player that signs a transition tag is fully guaranteed.