The Facts: Following up on the ongoing story. ... The Ravens are expected to designate Rice as their franchise player on Friday. The NFL deadline to use the tag is March 5. Rice has been expecting to receive a $7.7 million franchise tag, and now the Times has learned it's about to happen.
Diehards Line:Under rules governing franchise players, the Ravens have until the middle of July to negotiate a long-term deal. If a franchise player is unable to work out a long-term deal by July 15, then the player can only play under the terms of their one-year tender for the upcoming season. The Ravens have a history of working out deals with players after using the franchise tag. Rice led the NFL last season with 2,068 total yards from scrimmage, rushing for a career-high 1,364 yards and a dozen touchdowns while also catching 76 passes for 704 yards and three touchdowns. He broke the Ravens' single-season record with 15 total touchdowns. In four NFL seasons, the diminutive former Rutgers star has rushed for 4,377 career yards and 24 touchdowns. He has caught 250 passes for 2,235 yards and five touchdowns. ... While he'd clearly prefer a long-term deal, Rice recently suggested he wouldn't complain about the franchise tag. Looks like we'll find out for sure soon enough.