The Carolina Panthers used their franchise tag on defensive end Greg Hardy, who enjoyed his best season with 15 sacks. This sent him to his first career Pro Bowl.
Hardy's presence helped boost the Panthers defense into elite status as they finished second in total defense. According to CBS Sports, Hardy was set to become a free agent for the Panthers.
With the franchise tag, Hardy will earn approximately $12 million for the 2014 season. The Panthers are expected to either trade him or give him a new contract though since they will not want to pay the full $12 million.
Hardy was taken by the Panthers in the sixth round of the 2010 NFL draft out of Ole Miss, according to ESPN.
Hardy is expected to ask for a hefty contract since fellow defensive end Charles Johnson signed a contract in 2011 worth $76 million.
The Panthers will look to keep Hardy long-term as they take the next step after reaching the playoffs for the first time since the 2008 season.
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