Cowboys Franchising DE DeMarcus Lawrence

Ian Rapoport reports that the Cowboys are officially franchising DE DeMarcus Lawrence for the second straight year.

Recent reports said that Lawrence was likely headed for another franchise tag, as the two parties were not close to an agreement on a long-term extension.

Tom Pelissero reported previously that Lawrence made it clear to the Cowboys last year that he would not sign a second franchise tender and feels he’s earned a long-term extension from the Cowboys.

Mike Garafolo added that Lawrence is looking for $20 million or more per year as part of a long-term extension.

A second straight franchise tag will cost Dallas $20.5 million fully guaranteed for the 2019 season. Dallas now has until July to negotiate a long-term extension with Lawrence.

Lawrence, 26, is a former second-round pick by the Cowboys in the 2014 NFL Draft out of Boise State. He finished a four-year rookie contract before the Cowboys used their franchise tag on him several months ago.

In 2018, Lawrence appeared in all 16 games for the Cowboys and recorded 64 tackles, 10.5 sacks, an interception, two forced fumbles, a recovery and a pass defense. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 9 overall edge defender out of 103 qualifying players.

We had him featured in our Top 100 – 2019 NFL Free Agents list.