What is the average salary a player receives under the Exclusive Franchise Tag based on?

The average salary a player receives under the Exclusive Franchise Tag is based on the average of the top 5 salaries at his position. This method is designed to ensure that the player receives a compensation package that reflects their market value compared to other players in the same position. By calculating the average of the top salaries, the league aims to provide a protective measure for franchises while also rewarding high-performing players who have proven their worth on the field.

This structure prevents distortion of salary standards within the league and is part of the franchise tag's fundamental purpose, which is to retain key players while allowing teams some flexibility with their payroll. It also encourages players to maintain high performance to potentially increase their market value when they negotiate for contracts in the future.