The Dallas Cowboys are considering applying the franchise tag to linebacker Anthony Spencer, a move that would guarantee the sixth-year player a one-year salary of about $8.8 million, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported Monday, citing a team source.
The newspaper said no decision has been reached and the Cowboys' limited options for replacing Spencer if they let him hit the free-agent market this offseason could also factor into their decision.
Spencer, 28, had 66 tackles, six sacks and four forced fumbles for the Cowboys in 2011. The former first-round pick has never had more than six sacks in a season, but he is considered solid against the run.
