NFL

Jets plan to use franchise tag on Harris: report

If the Jets are able, they will use their franchise tag on linebacker David Harris instead of on one of their free-agent wide receivers, ESPN.com reports.

Due to the NFL’s uncertain labor situation, it is unknown if the franchise designation will exist (the report says the players union is against it).

However, if it is part of the new agreement, an NFL source told the website the Jets will keep Harris, their 2010 team MVP, rather than tagging wide receivers Santonio Holmes or Braylon Edwards. Cornerback Antonio Cromartie is another of the Jets’ 17 free agents.

Harris is the last of the Jets’ Core Four to need a new contract, with cornerback Darrelle Revis, center Nick Mangold and tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson getting deals in 2010.

Under the current system, Harris would be guaranteed one year at $9.6 million, but a long-term contract is more likely, the report says. However, it also is unknown what a new salary cap might be.