NFL

The 49ers placed the franchise tag on NT Aubrayo Franklin. Franklin joins Pats NT Vince Wilfork as the only other player under the tag, with Pittsburgh Steelers NT Casey Hampton next up. Despite the tag, beat writer Matt Maiocco is hearing that Franklin is available in trade for a first-round pick (which would give the Niners three first-rounders). Franklin is guaranteed $7.003 million this season and GM Scot McCloughan indicated that the sides will continue to discuss a long-term deal.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Green Bay: NFL Network’s Jason LaCanfora reports the Packers are now planning to place the franchise tag on NT Ryan Pickett. The Green Bay Packers’ use of the tag would further highlight the increasing value of 3-4 nose tackles, giving the position a clean-sweep of franchise players this year. The sides are still working on an extension, but the Packers are prepared to pay the $7M for one year to retain their run-stuffer.

Philadelphia: Eagles coach Andy Reid indicated at Tuesday’s press conference that LeSean McCoy “will take the ball from here” following Brian Westbrook’s release. McCoy will be the Philadelphia Eagles feature back in 2010, with fullback Leonard Weaver chipping in.

San Diego: According to beat writer Kevin Acee, the San Diego Chargers have no intention of using the franchise tag on RB/KR Darren Sproles for a second straight season. The Bolts will talk to Sproles’ agent during the Combine this week. They remain interested in a long-term deal, but Sproles won’t be receiving a one-year offer at close to $7.3M. GM A.J. Smith maintains that Sproles is maxed out as a return ace and backup runner, so expect the free agent to test the market this time around.

Arizona: The Cardinals are not expected to seriously discuss a contract extension with Pro Bowl DE Darnell Dockett before the 2010 season starts. This is starting to mirror Anquan Boldin’s situation from the past couple of years. The Cardinals will want to figure out how much of their budget is left over after filling holes and signing their own players this offseason. We’re not expecting a Dockett extension until next offseason, if at all.

Oakland: Beat writer Rich Cimini believes the Jets could realistically be interested in a trade for Nnamdi Asomugha, who is reportedly being dangled by the Raiders. ESPN AFC East blogger Tim Graham also considers it a possibility. Asomugha made news at the Pro Bowl when he said he was interested in joining Darrelle Revis as a dynamic shutdown duo. As a final eight team, the Jets can’t sign free agents, but they’re free to improve their team through trades. Asomugha would have to be open to restructuring his deal to play for a contender.