5 defensive players and kicker get franchise tags

Five defensive players, all premier pass rushers, and 49ers placekicker Robbie Gould, were given franchise tags by their teams before Tuesday's NFL deadline. Ends DeMarcus Lawrence of Dallas and Frank Clark of Seattle, linebackers Dee Ford of Kansas City and Jadeveon Clowney of Houston, and tackle Grady Jarrett of Atlanta received non-exclusive tags. So did Gould. That means the players can negotiate with other teams, which would be required to give up two first-round draft choices as compensation for signing the tagged player — something that rarely occurs. Free agency begins March 13 at 3 p.m. (Oklahoma time).

Collins to test free agency after Giants skip tag

The New York Giants are letting three-time Pro Bowl safety Landon Collins test the free-agent market without any restrictions. The Giants on Tuesday elected not to put a franchise tag on their leading tackler in each of his four seasons with the team.

Former Broncos QB Kelly pleads not guilty

Former Denver Broncos backup quarterback Chad Kelly has pleaded not guilty to first-degree criminal trespassing after being accused of entering a couple's suburban home uninvited. KDVR-TV reports that Kelly entered the plea on Monday in Arapahoe County District Court in Colorado. His next court appearance was set for April 23. The Broncos waived the second-year pro after his Oct. 23 arrest.