The San Francisco 49ers announced Friday that they have used their non-exclusive franchise tag on safety Dashon Goldson.
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Goldson has started for the Niners the past three seasons and his six interceptions in 2011 tied cornerback Carlos Rodgers for the team lead. Goldson made his first career Pro Bowl this past season, as well.
"Dashon has been a 49er since we selected him in the fourth round of the 2007 draft," Niners general manager Trent Baalke said in a statement.
"By using the franchise tag on Dashon, it affords us the opportunity to continue to work on a long-term contract with him," Baalke added, "while also ensuring he will be a 49er for a sixth season, in 2012."
NFL Network insider Jason La Canfora reported earlier in the day, citing a league source, that the Niners intended to use their tag on Goldson.
If Goldson and the Niners are unable to agree to a long-term deal, he will stand to make $6.2 million this season.
