The Cincinnati Bengals are committed to using the franchise tag on A.J. Green if they're unable to sign him to an extension by March, a high-level source said.

The two sides have been far apart in negotiations as Green is currently in the final season of a four-year, $60 million deal he signed before the 2015 season.

Green would earn approximately $18 million under the franchise tag. Green has said he doesn't want to play under the franchise tag but he would accept it for one year.

Green underwent left ankle surgery to repair the damage on July 30. Green hasn't participated in a practice since Nov. 4.