Bears will use franchise tag on DT Henry Melton

With three days to go before the deadline for the franchise tag, the Chicago Bears join the list of teams announcing the use of the franchise tag on Friday. The Bears have decided to tag DT Henry Melton, although it’s unclear if he received the exclusive or non-exclusive tag. The non-exclusive franchise tag for defensive tackles is $8.45 million.

Melton made a big impact on the Bears in the last two seasons with 13 sacks in 2011 and 2012. The Bears have $3.5 million in cap space after tagging Melton. The Bears and Melton will have until July 15 to work out a long-term deal.

Good to be a Bear for another year hopefully we can get a long-term deal done soon! #BearDown #FranchiseTag—
Henry Melton (@HenMel) March 02, 2013

Bears used their franchise designation on DT Henry Melton.—
Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 02, 2013