There is a growing belief that Drew Brees will ultimately play the 2012 season under the one-year, $16.371 million franchise tag.
The Saints and Brees have less than a week left to reach a long-term deal before the July 16th deadline.
If the quarterback plays under the one-year tag, New Orleans would be in the difficult position of having to pay him $23.57 million in 2013.
Could Drew Brees Play Under Franchise Tag?