February 21st, 2011 
Matt Loede 
Posted in 
The Vikings on Monday passed over wide out Sidney Rice and instead used their franchise tag to retain outside linebacker Chad Greenway. The teams 2010 leading tackler was set to be a free agent this offseason.
“Chad’s an important part of our team and his play speaks for itself. He’s productive and has continued to improve each year he has been in the NFL,” Vikings coach Leslie Frazier said in a statement.
The Vikings did not use an “exclusive” tag on Greenway, so other teams will be able to bid on him. However, the Vikings would have the choice of matching any offer for Greenway or receiving two first-round picks as compensation.
Last season the 28-year-old had 144 tackles last season and has led the team in tackles the last three seasons. Greenway has been with the Vikings for five years and has been a starter for four of those seasons.
The franchise tag is expected be around $10 million for linebackers.
Tags: 
