Jets place non-exclusive franchise tag on Mo Wilkerson

In a few moves that should come as very little surprise, the Denver Broncos are expected to use their exclusive franchise tag on free agent linebacker Von Miller and the New York Jets will use the "regular" franchise tag on defensive end Muhammed Wilkerson. But now with the tag in place, they have until July 15 to get a deal done or they'll have to wait until after the season to continue negotiations.

Talks between Wilkerson and the Jets broke off before the start of last season, making the franchise tag seem likely. He would simply take his chances and make a run at Wilkerson if he hits the open market as an unrestricted free agent in 2017. And really, there wasn't much the new-look Jets decision-makers, head coach Todd Bowles and general manager Mike Maccagnan, could say. Re-signing quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick is the Jets' top priority, as is negotiating a workable deal with productive nose tackle Damon Harrison.

The NFL Players Association released the 2016 franchise-tag salary numbers Monday.

Entering the 2015 National Football League season, New York Jets defensive lineman Muhammad Wilkerson was adamant that he deserved a lucrative contract extension. With the non-exclusive tag, if the sides can't reach a deal and he signs with another team, NY would be compensated by receiving two first-round draft picks. Wilkerson becomes the fourth Jet to receive the franchise designation in the last 10 years, with that list including DE John Abraham, LB David Harris and K Nick Folk. By the time they are ready to consistently compete, Wilkerson, who will turn 27 this season, will be trending downward.