Cardinals 'franchise' LB Dansby

Feb 14, 2008 - 11:53 PM TEMPE, Arizona (Ticker) -- The Arizona Cardinals on Thursday placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on linebacker Karlos Dansby.

The 26-year-old Dansby, who was was scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of this month, was offered a one-year tender in the amount of the average of the five highest-paid linebackers ($8,065,000) in the NFL in 2007.

Originally selected 33rd overall by Arizona in 2004, Dansby collected a career-high 117 tackles, 3.5 sacks, three interceptions and three forced fumbles in 14 games for the Cardinals last season.

The 6-4, 250-pounder, who can continue to negotiate a long-term contract with the club through July 15, has registered 382 tackles (296 solos), 20.5 sacks, seven interceptions, 10 forced fumbles and six fumble recoveries in four seasons with Arizona.

If Dansby receives an offer sheet from another team, the Cardinals can match it or receive two first-round draft picks as compensation.