N/S Vince Wilfork is franchised

the-commish said

All that means is that this likely will be Wilfork's last season in New England. Unless the two sides come to a long term contract during the season he is franchised (2010 season) Wilfork will be an unrestricted free agent after the season, and free to sign with any team.

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Pats, Wilfork hope for long-term deal

"A long-term agreement with Vince Wilfork has been the team's top contractual priority for some time," the Patriots announced in a statement confirming Wilfork was tagged. "Unfortunately, despite numerous conversations and proposals, the goal has not yet been realized. Vince is a tremendous player for our team and remains a significant part of our future plans. It is because of Vince's importance to this organization that we have assigned the franchise designation as we continue to work toward a long-term agreement. We are hopeful that Vince will remain a Patriot for many years to come."

The Patriots used the nonexclusive tag on Wilfork, according to an NFL source, meaning that other teams can host Wilfork on a free-agent visit and potentially sign him to an offer sheet. If the Patriots decide not to match a potential offer sheet, they would receive two first-round draft choices. Because of that high cost, it is extremely rare for a nonexclusive franchise tag player to change teams with an offer sheet.

http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/nfl/news/story?id=4936236