The Buccaneers have placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on linebacker Shaquil Barrett, last season's league-leader in sacks, the team announced Monday.
Barrett was set to become an unrestricted free agent on March 18. By placing the non-exclusive tag on him, Barrett can negotiate with other teams but Tampa Bay has the right to match any contract offers.
In the days leading up to Monday's franchise tag deadline, Barrett expressed his preference to reach a long-term agreement to return to the Bucs. However, he said he'd accept the franchise designation if it came to that.