As expected, NFL teams are scrambling two weeks ahead of free agency to keep some of the top players from hitting the market. First, the Atlanta Falcons placed the franchise tag on tight end Kyle Pitts. The Dallas Cowboys also revealed their intention to apply the tag to wide receiver George Pickens. Many considered Pickens to be the best free agent, but he was never expected to be available.
You can cross another top offensive playmaker off the list.
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New York Jets general manager Darren Mougey met with the media on Tuesday at the NFL combine in Indianapolis and was asked about the future of running back Breece Hall. Hall, who turns 25 in May, is scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent in two weeks. Mougey said whether the Jets can reach a new deal with Hall or not, he’ll be back in 2026 under the franchise tag.
That’s a tough blow for teams needing a running back. Hall was expected to be the top back available, in a solid group that also includes Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III. Despite having almost nothing around him, Hall has rushed for 3,398 yards, averaging 4.7 yards per rush, rushed for 18 touchdowns, caught 188 passes and nine more touchdowns in four seasons. Hall is young and a true dual-threat back.
The Washington Commanders will be in search of another running back. It’s unclear if Washington sees 2025 rookie standout Jacory Croskey-Merritt as a starter in 2026, but he will be a part of the team’s plans. Hall could’ve given the Commanders what they lost when Austin Ekeler went down with an Achilles injury and isn’t expected back. It seems doubtful that Washington would’ve paid Hall at the top of the market consider its other needs, but he would’ve been an ideal fit behind quarterback Jayden Daniels in offensive coordinator David Blough’s new-look offense.
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This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Jets’ decision takes a top free agent away