Steelers Designate LB Woodley With Franchise Tag
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – The Pittsburgh Steelers have designated linebacker LaMarr Woodley as the team's franchise player for next season.
Woodley has been with the team for five years. He's recorded at least 10 sacks in each of the last three seasons.
According to a press release from the Steelers, Woodley's 39 sacks in the last four seasons is a franchise record.
He is the only player in NFL history to have recorded at least one sack in six straight playoff games.
During the 2010 season, Woodley had 10 sacks, two interceptions and three forced fumbles. He also recovered two fumbles.
Per franchise tag rules, the Steelers must offer a one-year deal at the average of the five highest-paid linebackers in the league, or 120 percent of his 2010 salary, whichever is greater.
The designation allows the club to have a first-refusal to match an offer sheet from another team within seven days.
Should the Steelers match a potential offer sheet from another team for Woodley, he would remain in Pittsburgh.
If the Steelers refused to match the offer sheet, they would receive two first-round draft picks as compensation.
RELATED STORIES
Cecil Interviews For Steelers' Secondary Coaching Position
Ed Bouchette Talks Steelers Off Season and Free Agency
LeBeau To Sign 1-Year Contract With Steelers
RELATED LINKS
Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Full Statement On Woodley's Designation
