The Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced quite the dilemma regarding their franchise tag.

The Bucs had multiple internal free agents possibly worthy of being tagged, including last year's recipient, Shaquil Barrett. However, Tampa Bay elected to place the tag on star wide receiver Chris Godwin, meaning Barrett and veteran linebacker Lavonte David are among those who will be free agents.

However, the Bucs are hoping to sign Barrett to a long-term deal. Albert Breer of The Monday Morning Quarterback reported the two sides have “begun discussions in earnest.”

Barrett has been one of the best edge rushers in football the past two seasons.

The 28-year-old made the Pro Bowl in 2019, leading the NFL with 19.5 sacks in addition to 37 quarterback hits, 19 tackles for a loss, and six forced fumbles. Barrett was not quite as prolific in 2020, finishing the regular season with 8.0 sacks and 16 quarterback hits. But he saved his best for the playoffs.

Barrett was thoroughly dominant during Tampa Bay's run to the Super Bowl, especially in the final two games. He sacked Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers three times during the NFC Championship Game, with four quarterback hits and numerous hurries. The terror did not end there, however, as Barrett also got a sack on Patrick Mahomes in the Super Bowl, repeatedly pressuring the Kansas City Chiefs star off the edge.

The Buccaneers might be hoping to manifest some extra cap space via an extension with Tom Brady. Head coach Bruce Arians suggested during the parade the team would keep the band together, so it does not come as a surprise to hear Tampa Bay is doing early work on a long-term deal with its star edge rusher.