There’s a week before the deadline for franchise-tagged players to reach long-term deals with their teams.
But Dallas outside linebacker Anthony Spencer probably shouldn’t expect one -- since his employer decided to post the news on its own website.
Josh Ellis of the Cowboys’ official website wrote Monday that “the word at Valley Ranch” is that the team will let Spencer play out the year at his tag number of $8.856 million. Since Ellis’ paychecks come from Valley Ranch, it’s reasonable to assume “the word” is valid.
The Cowboys could always franchise Spencer again next year, but it would cost over $10.6 million.
The 28-year-old has been solid but not spectacular, living in the shadow of DeMarcus Ware. He has 17 sacks and eight forced fumbles the last three seasons. Those are good numbers, but not worth nearly $10 million a year.
Spencer signed his tender in April, and participated in all the team’s offseason work.