Do we franchise tag Nicks in this off season?

What is the date Drew has to sign for to eliminate the need for a temporary tag?

I'll answer my own question. Google is a wonderful thing. It's middle to end of Feb which probably isn't enough time to get Drew's contract done if we go deep in the playoffs. I don't think there is anyway we don't use it to hold Drew. It would be a shame to lose Nicks that way. If you don't tag Drew, his agent can ask any amount and Loomis can only write the check. The saints completely lose all bargaining power