Lions place franchise tag on Ansah

The Detroit Lions announced on Tuesday they have placed their franchise tag on defensive end Ezekiel Ansah.

Had he been allowed to hit free agency, Ansah would have been the top edge rusher available.

In five seasons in Detroit, the native of Ghana has tallied 207 tackles and 44 sacks. In 14 games in 2017, he produced 12 quarterback sacks and a forced fumble.

Under the tag, Ansah is scheduled to make an estimated $16.9 million for the 2018 season.

The Lions exercised the fifth-year option in Ansah's contract last season. He earned $12.7 million for the year on the deal.