With NFL free agency right around the corner, the Jacksonville Jaguars have no room to fool around. They decided to burn their franchise tag on Yannick Ngakoue to ward off potential suitors to the talented defensive end.

ESPN's Adam Schefter broke the news that the Jaguars will use their all-important tag on Ngakoue as they try to convince him to sign a new contract that will keep him in Jacksonville for the foreseeable future.

Ngakoue has become an important component of the Jaguars' defense ever since joining them as a third-round selection in 2016. Last season, he had a respectable haul of 41 tackles, eight sacks, one fumble recovery, four forced fumbles, six pass deflections, and one interception for 23 yards. He's a terrific defender for any NFL team, and it's in their best interest to keep him tied to the team.

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However, the man himself has expressed thoughts of moving on from the Jaguars. It's obvious that Jacksonville wouldn't be making any deep playoff runs any time soon, and he wants to compete with a winner.

Ngakoue made his feelings clear with a blunt tweet that hurt Jaguars fans:

“The Jaguars are aware I no longer have interest in signing a long term contract in Jacksonville. Duval, I love you and gave you guys everything I got. I’m thankful for the journey and look forward to continuing my career elsewhere.”

The franchise tag may have been done to not allow him to walk away for free. If any team wants to pick him up, they would have to give up more than a pretty penny to get him in a trade with the Jaguars.