Key Highlights
- The New York Jets have placed a franchise tag on running back Breece Hall.
- This move comes despite Aaron Glenn’s claim of “playcalling superpowers.”
- Hall is one of the most sought-after free agents, with his market value increasing due to the legal tampering period.
- The two sides failed to reach a deal after active negotiations, leading to the franchise tag.
The Jets’ Move and Breece Hall’s Future
The New York Jets have dusted off their franchise tag, placing it on running back Breece Hall ahead of Tuesday’s 4 p.m. ET deadline, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. This move comes at a time when the Jets’ coaching staff, including Aaron Glenn, has been hyping Hall’s potential as a dual-threat player who would have a significant impact in the passing game.
Glenn’s Claims and Reality
Glenn, known for his “playcalling superpowers,” has been vocal about his belief in Hall’s capabilities. However, Hall’s performance last season tells a different story. Despite being a 2022 second-round pick, Hall rushed for just 1,065 yards in what was the Jets’ worst season since 1983. The coaches hyped him as a game-changer, but he finished with only 36 receptions, his second-lowest total in four seasons.
Hall’s Market Value
Hall’s tag is the nonexclusive version ($14.293 million), meaning he can negotiate with other teams and sign an offer sheet. The Jets have the right of first refusal and would receive two first-round draft picks as compensation if they decline to match — a prohibitive price for a running back. This move by the Jets is seen as a clear indication that Hall isn’t going anywhere unless traded or the tag is rescinded, which is rare.
Previous Tag and Future Outlook
The last time the Jets used the franchise tag was in 2021 on safety Marcus Maye, who never signed a long-term contract. He wound up leaving as a free agent in 2022. By declining Hall’s offer, he might be able to capitalize on an anticipated spike in the running back market. Stars like Jahmyr Gibbs and Bijan Robinson are eligible for extensions, and Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III is poised to become a free agent Monday.
Hall’s Role with the Jets
In four seasons, Hall has compiled 5,040 scrimmage yards, ranking him 14th in the league. Despite his frustrations about the Jets’ losing ways, he remains optimistic and expressed disappointment that he wasn’t traded at the midseason trading deadline. The Jets’ record with Hall is 22-46 under three different coaches, but he and wide receiver Garrett Wilson are the team’s only two proven playmakers.
Expert Opinion
General manager Darren Mougey has been clear on their plans, saying they’d use a franchise or transition tag if they couldn’t sign Hall before the tag deadline. Mougey stated that “Breece is a good player and we want to find a way to keep him around.” This move by the Jets signals their intention to keep Hall for at least one more season unless he’s traded, which would be a surprise given his current market value.
So, Breece Hall is officially tagged. You might think this is new, but…
The reality is that the Jets have had their eye on him for years.
This move is just another step in their attempt to keep one of the most valuable players in free agency. Will it work? Only time will tell.