The Kansas City Chiefs have placed the franchise tag on All-Pro pass rusher Justin Houston.
The Chiefs announced the move on Monday, saying in a statement that “it was in the best interest of the club” and it pursues a long-term deal with Houston.
Monday’s move was widely expected given the relatively little progress Kansas City has made with Houston and his representatives on a long-term deal.
The two sides still have until July 15 to negotiate a contract, and it is not certain whether Houston will immediately sign his tender. As an outside linebacker, the one-year deal would earn him about $13.1 million for the upcoming season.
The Chiefs likely will need to make additional moves soon to free up salary cap space.