Bears place franchise tag on Melton

Author: By The Sports Xchange
Published On: Mar 01 2013 09:22:23 PM EST   Updated On: Mar 01 2013 09:22:24 PM EST

The Chicago Bears announced on Friday that they have used their franchise designation on defensive tackle Henry Melton.

"Henry has been a good player for us and we are using the franchise tag so his development continues as a Bear," Bears general manager Phil Emery said in a statement. "We will continue our conversations with Henry and work toward a multi-year agreement."

The NFL has set $8.45 million as the franchise tag for defensive tackles.

The Bears and Melton have until July 15 to work out a long-term deal, but the Chicago Tribune reports that the two sides are far about in the negotiations.

Melton, 26, was named to the Pro Bowl this past season, when Melton had six sacks.

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