Report: Giants apply franchise tag on Pierre-Paul

The New York Giants applied the franchise tag on defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul on Monday, Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio reports, citing a source.

Pierre-Paul and the Giants have until July 15 to reach a long-term deal, or else the defensive end will remain under the one-year tender for the upcoming campaign.

The 28-year-old recorded 53 tackles, seven sacks, three forced fumbles, and eight pass deflections in 12 games last season.

Giants general manager Jerry Reese stated that retaining Pierre-Paul would be a priority for the organization. The Giants invested heavily in their defensive line last spring, signing defensive end Olivier Vernon and defense tackle Damon Harrison to lucrative deals.

Pierre-Paul injured his hand during a July 2015 fireworks accident, where his right index finger was completely severed, and sustained critical damage to other fingers. After missing half of the 2015 season while recovering from the incident, Pierre-Paul appeared to be nearing peak form during the 2016 campaign.

The two-time Pro Bowler was an integral part of the Giants' Super Bowl victory in 2011, recording a career-high 16.5 sacks during the regular season.