Franchise tags are a staple of contract negotiations, but one Pittsburgh Steelers veteran is definitely against the designation.
On Wednesday, Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward made it clear to reporters that when it comes to the franchise tag, he believes it's completely unfair.
"It's stupid," Cameron Heyward said about the franchise tag. "It hampers players. Why should any team be able to take advantage of a player for one year? It's used in negotiations. I think between player options, the franchise tag, the way they control rookies, I think it's kind of backwards."
Cam Heyward on the franchise tag: “It’s stupid.” “Why should any team be able to take advantage of a player for one year? It’s used in negotiations.” pic.twitter.com/aoKMfwMTDl
— Mike DeFabo (@MikeDeFabo) September 9, 2026
Heyward, who serves as the NFLPA vice president, has been involved in less-than-ideal contract negotiations with Pittsburgh in years past, so it comes as no surprise where he stands on the franchise tag.
Pittsburgh has sparingly used the franchise tag since the Le'Veon Bell debacle blew up in the team's face, but former Steelers outside linebacker Bud Dupree was the last player hit by the designation. He ultimately decided to play out the 2020 tender and departed Pittsburgh in free agency.
If Joey Porter Jr. isn't signed to a long-term extension over the next few days, the Steelers could ultimately look to use the franchise tag once again following the 2026 season. This move would obviously not sit well with Heyward, but the Steelers have all but backed themselves into a corner at this point in negotiations with Porter.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers veteran blasts NFL franchise tag, calls it 'stupid'
