Atlanta Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff joined the Falcons' flagship station 790 The Zone live this morning to announce the team would be placing the franchise tag on Brent Grimes, owing him roughly $10 million for the upcoming 2012 season. Seems like no one told Team Grimes. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution contacted Grimes' agent Ben Dogra shortly after the interview, who refuted the move:
"We have no plans to sign the tag at this time," said Ben Dogra, Grimes’ agent. "We hope to be able to continue to discuss through all the issues at the appropriate time."
Obviously Grimes and his agent would prefer the Falcons (or another club) lock up the rising star to a long term deal. So, what does this mean for Grimes and Atlanta? Depending on which franchise tag the Falcons will apply (exclusive or non-exclusive), Grimes' camp could have very little wiggle room, as another team would have to surrender two first-round draft picks and give Grimes a higher contract.
For more on the Atlanta Falcons, check out The Falcoholic and SB Nation's NFL page.